The Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) is set to bolster its fleet with the addition of 840 new buses, approved by the Karnataka government to enhance public transportation in Bengaluru. The procurement, sanctioned at a total cost of ₹355.47 crore, will see each BS-6 diesel bus costing ₹43.3 lakh.
Parliamentary Law Minister HK Patil announced the government’s decision, highlighting that these new buses will increase BMTC’s total fleet from 6,071 to 7,000 vehicles. Designed to cater to various commuting needs across Bengaluru, excluding Vayuvajra and electric variants, these buses aim to improve transportation accessibility and efficiency.
Minister Patil highlighted BMTC’s pivotal role, generating ₹5.5 crore in daily revenue and employing around 29,000 personnel. The decision to expand the fleet comes amid financial challenges for Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Additionally, in a move to support KSRTC, the Cabinet has waived Rule 20(1) (c) of the Karnataka Land Grant Rules, 1969, allocating 5 acres of land in Gubbi Taluk, Tumkur District, free of cost for the construction of a bus unit.
