Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta today inaugurated the newly constructed academic block of the Social Centre School, affiliated with Delhi University, (Maurice Nagar) marking a significant milestone for students across the capital. During the event, she announced the revival of the long-discontinued ‘U-Special’ bus service, which once served as a lifeline for college students in Delhi.
The Chief Minister stated that the service would return with modern upgrades, including air conditioning, LED lighting, and music systems ensuring a more comfortable, accessible, and dignified commute for students.
She further proposed that Delhi University adopt selected government schools, allowing university professors and students to regularly mentor schoolchildren and contribute to their academic growth.
Addressing the gathering as the chief guest, Rekha Gupta acknowledged the challenges students face in commuting to colleges and reiterated her government’s commitment to ensuring safe, reliable, and student-friendly transportation.
She applauded the transformation of the Social Centre School, which was established in 1947 with a mission of social service. Today, it stands as a modern four-storey institution with 21 state-of-the-art classrooms. The Chief Minister also announced that the school will now be granted official recognition to provide education up to Class 12.
In a significant proposal, CM Rekha Gupta encouraged Delhi University to adopt government schools in need of support, enabling university professors and students to regularly visit and mentor schoolchildren. She urged university students to serve as elder siblings to children from underprivileged backgrounds offering them guidance, support, and educational assistance to help integrate them into mainstream society.
The Chief Minister also drew attention to a concerning social paradox in the education system. She observed that while parents are keen to send their children to government-run colleges and universities, they often hesitate when it comes to government schools. “This hesitation stems from misconceptions about the quality and image of government schools,” she said. “Our government is determined to change that perception. We are transforming government schools in Delhi to exceed the standards of private institutions so much so that parents will proudly choose to enrol their children in them.”
In her concluding remarks, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta reaffirmed her government’s unwavering commitment to educational reform, stating that sustained efforts are propelling Delhi toward a future of “Excellence in Education, Excellence in Opportunity.”
Background: The Legacy of U-Special Buses
Public bus services in Delhi began in 1948, and by 1971, the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) took charge of operations. It was during this period that the concept of ‘U-Special’ buses was introduced dedicated transport services for college students. These buses operated from various prominent localities across the city, ferrying students to major college campuses, including Delhi University’s North and South Campuses.
Only students were allowed to board these buses, which were known for their convenience and affordability. They would make return journeys post noon, serving as a dependable transport option for thousands of learners. However, with the emergence of private Red Line and later Blue Line buses in the 1990s, DTC’s fleet began to dwindle, and eventually, the U-Special service was discontinued.
Now, this iconic service is set to make a modern comeback reimagined for a new generation of Delhi’s students.
