BMTC to Expand City Bus Services Across 40-Km Radius Under GBA Framework

Quick summary

• The Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) formation paves the way for expanding Bengaluru metropolitan Transport CorporationS (BMTC) city bus services up to a 40-km radius from the city’s boundary.
• A draft notification was issued on September 18, inviting public objections and feedback regarding this expansion plan.
• BMTC currently operates within a 25-km radius but plans to cater to growing demand spurred by the city’s rapid growth and population increase.
• Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy stated that more buses are necessary as increasing numbers of commuters travel daily from outskirts for work in bengaluru.
• Commuters have expressed mixed reactions, welcoming the move but raising concerns about fleet adequacy. Suggestions include doubling fleet size, adding eco-pleasant electric buses, and upgrading operational capacity.
• Officials said BMTC aims to expand its fleet through Central schemes like PM e-Drive and FAME-II alongside direct procurement.

Indian Opinion Analysis

Expanding BMTC’s operations beyond current limits is a logical response to Bengaluru’s urban sprawl and migration-driven population growth. However, commuter apprehensions about insufficient fleet size highlight practical challenges in implementation. Merely extending routes without scaling infrastructure may strain existing systems rather than improve connectivity. Fleet augmentation through government support schemes is promising but requires timely execution.

A balanced approach prioritizing both geographic coverage and transport quality will benefit daily commuters while reducing reliance on private vehicles-potentially addressing traffic congestion and pollution concerns in peripheral areas. Public participation via objections or suggestions during this draft stage can be crucial for shaping effective policies inclusive of commuter needs.

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