BMTC to add 3,500 buses to its fleet

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru:

The BMTC is planning to increase its fleet to 10,000 by adding 3,500 new buses. As of August 20 this year, the fleet has 6,798 buses. While this decision might seem wise, media reports say otherwise. The BMTC has not been able to fully operate its existing fleet and routine schedules due to shortage of staff. They have integrated new electric buses to support environmental causes, but these buses still do not have infrastructure such as charging stations for them to sustainably thrive.

While public transport enthusiasts acknowledge that the need of the hour is to strengthen the fleet and increase the network to reach further portions of the city in order to encourage residents to opt for public transport, they have also questioned where these buses will be stationed when not in use. The corporation has promised construction of five new depots for the purpose, but critics believe it will not be finished in a timely fashion and the corporation is only making big claims.