Delhi’s Safe City Scheme prioritizes women’s safety with enhanced measures like increased PCR patrolling, panic buttons in public transport, and illuminated dark spots. Launched under CM Rekha Gupta, the initiative includes DEVI buses and One Stop Centres to ensure a safer capital for women.
Delhi Launches Comprehensive Safety Measures for Women
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has rolled out the Safe City Scheme, emphasizing women’s safety as a cornerstone of governance. Announced on June 30, 2025, the initiative addresses longstanding concerns about unsafe urban spaces. The government is actively identifying and illuminating dark spots across the city, with coordinated efforts involving the police and administration to enhance security infrastructure.
A key component is the intensification of PCR (Police Control Room) patrolling, particularly in high-risk areas. Panic buttons and women-specific PCR facilities have been integrated into public transport systems, empowering women to seek immediate assistance. The scheme also strengthens One Stop Centres, which provide legal, medical, and psychological support to women in distress, ensuring swift response mechanisms.
On May 2, 2025, CM Gupta flagged off 400 DEVI (Delhi Electric Vehicle Interconnector) buses under the Women’s Safety Scheme, rebranded from the earlier Mohalla bus service. These electric buses aim to offer safe, free, and reliable last-mile connectivity. Conductors are trained to maintain a respectful environment, fostering trust among female passengers. However, challenges like limited route coverage and traffic delays persist, with calls for greater public awareness to maximize impact.
The initiative also aligns with broader urban reforms. On July 2, 2025, a high-level meeting chaired by Lieutenant Governor VK Saxena and CM Gupta approved amendments to the Delhi Shops and Establishments Act, enabling women to work night shifts with explicit consent and stringent safety protocols. This move aims to balance economic empowerment with security, ensuring workplaces are equipped with robust safety measures.
Delhi’s efforts extend beyond infrastructure. The government is leveraging technology, such as Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) cameras, to enforce environmental regulations, indirectly supporting safer public spaces by reducing vehicular pollution. On July 1, 2025, fuel sales to end-of-life vehicles were banned, with 78 vehicles flagged on the second day of enforcement, signaling a commitment to cleaner and safer streets.
While the Safe City Scheme has been praised, concerns remain. Women have reported issues like inadequate route coverage for DEVI buses and the need for more CCTV installations in isolated areas, such as metro stations, where incidents of harassment have been noted. For instance, recent reports from Nagpur highlight similar safety gaps at metro stations, underscoring the need for comprehensive coverage.
The Delhi Police’s recent demonstration at Bharat Mandapam on July 2, 2025, showcased the implementation of new criminal laws, emphasizing their role in enhancing women’s safety. The event highlighted practical applications, such as crime scene management, which could bolster public confidence in law enforcement’s responsiveness to gender-based violence.
Disclaimer: This article is based on recent news reports and official statements from sources like Hindustan Times, The Hans India, Down To Earth, News18, and Times of India. Information is accurate as of July 3, 2025, and reflects ongoing developments. Readers are advised to verify details through official government channels.