Big push: BMTC launches 100 new diesel buses

Siddaramaiah, Chief Minister of Karnataka, inaugurated the first batch of 100 BS-VI buses for the BMTC fleet, marking a significant step towards enhancing Bengaluru's public transportation system. This event is part of a larger initiative to introduce 840 BS-VI buses, supported by the Government of Karnataka at a cost of Rs. 336 crores. The Chief Minister emphasized the state's commitment to improving public transport while addressing environmental concerns and ensuring passenger safety. The inauguration ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including Transport and Muzrai Minister Ramalingareddy, Urban Development Minister B.S. Suresh (Byrathi), Housing Minister B.Z. Zameer Ahmed Khan, Energy Minister K.J. George, and MLA Rizwan Arshad from the Shivajinagar Assembly Constituency. Other notable attendees included N.A. Harris, Chairman of the Bangalore Development Authority and MLA from Shantinagar, MLC M. Nagaraj Yadav, and Ajay Singh, Chairman of KKRDB. Chief Minister's Political Secretaries Dr. K. Govindaraju and Naseer Ahmed, along with BMTC officers and staff, were also present. The Chief Minister praised BMTC’s efforts to modernize its fleet, focusing on safety and environmental sustainability. The new buses, equipped with advanced safety features like surveillance cameras, panic buttons, and real-time tracking systems, are expected to improve the commuting experience and contribute to reducing Bengaluru’s pollution levels with their near-zero emissions technology. Transport and Muzrai Minister Ramalingareddy echoed these sentiments, highlighting the importance of expanding BMTC’s fleet and the government’s long-term vision to promote eco-friendly public transportation options, including the future expansion of electric buses.