BMTC rolls out ‘OnBoard’ assistive device for visually impaired city bus commuters

In a step toward inclusive public transportation, the Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) has begun deploying an innovative device called ‘OnBoard’ to assist visually impaired commuters in navigating city buses with greater ease and independence.

The technology, developed by the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi in partnership with the Raised Lines Foundation (RLF), is being implemented with the support of Continental Automotive Components India Pvt. Ltd. and Enable India, according to BMTC.

Officials said that it aims to eliminate the need for visually impaired individuals to rely on bystanders at bus stops, thus reducing mental stress and improving self-confidence.

Speaking about the initiative, Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy said, “The OnBoard system is a progressive step toward empowering visually impaired citizens to travel with dignity and independence.”

How it works

The OnBoard solution uses a two-part communication system: a handheld remote with the commuter and a receiver unit installed in BMTC buses, fixed on the lower front glass near the entry door.

When a bus approaches, the visually impaired commuter presses a “Find” button on the remote, prompting the bus to announce its route number through a speaker. If the bus matches the desired route, the commuter presses “Select,” alerting the driver and conductor that a visually impaired passenger is preparing to board. “This ensures a longer halt for safer boarding. The same method is used for disembarkation as the passenger nears their destination,” Mr. Reddy said.

Some of the key features of the device include: Alerting users when a selected bus is within a 30-meter radius, ensuring safe and guided boarding and alighting, weather-resistant design, tested for durability in rain, dust, and heat.

Pilot project shows promise

The pilot project began with 25 BMTC buses operating on routes 401K and 242B, which visually impaired passengers frequently use. “As part of the pilot, 500 users received hands-on training, with 25 individuals actively testing the system. Feedback from these users was overwhelmingly positive. Many reported increased confidence, less anxiety while commuting, and a significantly improved experience,” the Minister said.

Encouraged by this, BMTC approved the installation of OnBoard devices in 500 buses across Bengaluru, with the next 100 devices being installed from June 2025. Full deployment is expected by August 2025.

Implementation strategy and routes covered

According to BMTC, initial integration of the device required several modifications to ensure compatibility with existing bus systems. After technical adjustments and server integration, installation began on 125 diesel buses across five routes: 401K (Yelahanka to Kengeri), 401R (Yelahanka to Kengeri), 401M (Yeshwanthpur to Kengeri), 410FA (Yeshwanthpur to Banashankari TTMC), 410FG (Yeshwanthpur to Nayandahalli Metro Station).

According to BMTC officials, this initiative has not only earned praise locally but has also begun attracting interest from other states exploring similar solutions. “We’re seeing a national shift in how we approach public transport infrastructure for persons with disabilities,” said an official from BMTC.

Prashanth Doreswamy, president and CEO of Continental, said, “We believe that mobility must be inclusive and accessible. This partnership with BMTC is a testament to what technology can do when it is driven by a sense of social responsibility.”

The Minister said, “We urge other transport agencies and departments across the country to take note and implement similar solutions to ensure no one is left behind.”