Navigate

Bengaluru: BMTC To Launch Non-AC Express Bus Services On Long Routes; Will Have Fewer Stops

BMTC non-AC buses

To make travel faster, efficient, and affordable on long routes, the Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) is planning to introduce a fleet of non-air-conditioned express buses in the city. These buses will have fewer stops and are expected to cut down a significant amount of travel time on long routes.

Bengaluru BMTC To Roll Out Non-AC Express Bus Service

According to Moneycontrol, the upcoming non-AC fleet of express buses by Bengaluru’s BMTC will make use of the extensive flyover network in the state to reduce travel time on long routes. With the hope to make travel more convenient for long-distance commuters, this new service will make fewer stops along the way. Reportedly, these new non-AC buses are likely to be launched under a new brand. Furthermore, unlike regular non-AC buses, these express buses by BMTC will have slightly higher fares because of the faster and more direct routes.

Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons (representative image)

BMTC has ensured that the new non-AC express bus service will continue to accommodate women passengers under the state’s Shakti Scheme. The scheme offers free travel on BMTC buses to women across Karnataka. Explaining the plans for the new fleet, a BMTC official shared that the route for the new service will be planned to avoid unnecessary halts. The buses will now use flyovers and only stop at key locations to avoid any delays.

Also Read: Metro Travel Made Easy: Bengaluru Users Can Soon Book Tickets On Rapido, Redbus & More

Move Comes Amid State-Wide Bike Taxi Ban

BMTC’s move to introduce non-AC express bus service on long routes comes amid mounting criticism over the statewide ban on app-based bike taxi services in Karnataka. The state’s transport department, under the directives of a High Court order, suspended their operations earlier this week.

All major ride-hailing platforms like Ola, Uber, and Rapido were asked to remove the bike taxi option from their apps. This has caused a major uproar among daily commuters who relied on this cost-effective last-mile travel option. Many netizens have also pointed out how auto-rickshaws in the state are now charging much higher prices since people now lack options.

Also Read: I Found Pune-Style Cream Rolls At This Place In Bengaluru And They Took Me Back In Time

More details about the BMTC non-AC express bus services are awaited.

Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons (representative image)

For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE.
Tashika Tyagi: Good coffee, charming cafes, indulgent desserts, and Indian street food - these are just a few things Tashika can never say 'no' to! When she’s not scouting out new spots to explore or eat at, you'll likely find her experimenting with Instagram recipes in the kitchen or binge-watching a K-dramas.