Over 10,000 BMTC complaints in eight months
The Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) is facing mounting criticism from passengers, with more than 10,000 complaints registered in just eight months of this year. A significant portion of these relate to the rude behavior, negligence, and rash driving of drivers and conductors, sparking growing concern about passenger safety and service quality.
According to BMTC data, 10,609 complaints were lodged between January and August 2025. Of these, 4,093 specifically targeted drivers and conductors for inappropriate behavior, including verbal abuse, aggression, and misconduct, particularly toward women. With the state’s Shakti scheme allowing women to travel free on BMTC buses, passenger volumes have surged, and complaints of harassment have risen correspondingly.
Comparisons with last year reveal a troubling trend. In 2024, the corporation received 11,412 complaints, 5,494 of which were against drivers and operators. Despite repeated warnings and disciplinary measures such as fines and notices, the number of cases this year already indicates persistent issues.
Passengers also raised grievances beyond misconduct, including demands for better route coverage, additional buses, and improved services. BMTC officials have stated that all misconduct-related complaints are investigated within a fixed timeframe, with errant staff warned or penalized.
Meanwhile, concerns over accidents add to public anxiety. Recent fatal incidents in Bengaluru, including the death of a 25-year-old woman in Peenya, have been blamed on careless or inexperienced drivers, particularly those handling new electric buses. Officials have promised stricter enforcement and disciplinary action, but passengers remain skeptical as the complaints continue to pile up.
