The Delhi Cabinet has given its nod to the ‘Chandni Chowk Sewa’ — eco-friendly CNG minibuses which will run along two routes in the Walled City. This step has been taken to improve the accessibility to markets in Chandni Chowk, reduce traffic volume and congestion in the area and provide pedestrians a safe and convenient passage.

Ten stage carriage permits will be granted on the first route and five on the Fountain route initially. The remaining permits will be granted depending on the performance of the buses which will be painted green.

The Fare Revision Committee will finalize the fare structure while the Transport Department and MCD will assess if some restrictions are required on plying of cycle rickshaws after the mini CNG-buses are introduced. According to a Transport Department proposal, cycle rickshaws will not be allowed to ply in Chandni Chowk between 9 am and 8 pm and will be restricted to the side roads and lanes only.

Cars and two wheelers will be allowed to ply while vehicles in the prohibited category will be allowed to ply but not park or wait within the Chandni Chowk area. Delivery and pick-up of goods from Chandni Chowk will be allowed 8 pm and 9 am while goods handling will be allowed between 2 pm and 4 pm.