New Delhi, March 19 (IANS): The Delhi government on Thursday extended the daily time for disinfection of public vehicles after a huge turnout.

"Disinfection of vehicles can now be done anytime between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., earlier it was being done in two shifts," the Delhi Transport Department said.

The department said 11,081 certificates of disinfection were issued to public service vehicles till 6 p.m. on Wednesday.

The transport department said this service is not mandatory for all although the Delhi government has advised the owners/operators of these vehicles to get their vehicles disinfected on a daily basis.

Delhi Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot said the motive is to disinfect as many vehicles as possible.

"We have received an overwhelming response for our disinfection drive. Due to which, we have decided to extend it for the entire day. Our motive is to disinfect as many vehicles as possible," Gahlot said.

The Delhi government had initially started disinfection drive for DTC and cluster buses, the facility was later extended to other public service vehicles like auto-rickshaw, Gramin Sewa, Phat-Phat Sewa, maxi cabs, and eco-friendly vehicles, free of cost.