With GBA coming into force, BMTC plans expansion of city bus services to 40-km radius

With the formation of the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA), the Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) is set to expand its city bus operations to cover areas up to a 40-km radius from the city boundary.

The State government issued a draft notification on September 18, inviting public objections and feedback on the proposed expansion.

Currently, BMTC buses operate in the 25-km radius of Bengaluru, but with the city’s rapid growth and rising population, the expansion is being seen as necessary, according to officials.

An official from the Transport Department said the move will allow BMTC to extend services up to 40-km from the GBA boundary.

The draft notification has called upon the general public to submit objections or suggestions in writing to the Secretary to Government, Transport Department, 3rd Gate, M.S. Building, Bengaluru–560001.

Speaking to The Hindu, Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy said, “Since the city is expanding and the population is also increasing, especially in the outskirts, there is demand for more city buses. Many travel daily from the outskirts to the city for work, and with the creation of the GBA, this expansion is necessary and will help the people.”

Commuters welcome move, but flag fleet concerns

While commuters have welcomed the decision to extend bus services, they have raised concerns about whether the BMTC fleet will be expanded in tandem.

“This is a good move by the government. But this means the fleet size should double up. Mere extensions won’t be fine, it will only stress the system,” said Lavanya S, a resident of Soladevanahalli.

Another commuter, Sampath Kumar, said “Unless the size of the fleet is increased, if not doubled, this plan will prove to be a disaster for existing areas and users. First increase the number of buses, especially eco-friendly electric ones, and then extend the services.”

Officials said that BMTC will augment its fleet through Central government schemes such as PM e-Drive and FAME-II, while also procuring new buses.