To make public transport more women-friendly, the Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) is revamping its bus interiors.
The focus is on improving grab handles, which are often too high or hard to reach, especially in overcrowded buses.
As per TOI, this has become a growing concern since the launch of the Shakti scheme, which allows free travel for women. Out of 40 lakh daily BMTC passengers, over 23 lakh are women.
New Designs and Better Access
BMTC has asked bus makers like Tata Motors and Switch Mobility to design handles that are easier for all passengers to use鈥攅specially shorter individuals and those carrying backpacks. The corporation is also switching to ultra low-floor buses, making it easier for the elderly, women, and children to board.
Smarter Safety and Entry Features
New buses will have pneumatic doors with outside buttons to ease entry at crowded stops. BMTC has also added over 5,000 CCTV cameras across its fleet. All new electric and BS-VI buses come with surveillance systems to improve safety, especially for women commuters.
Driver Training and Passenger Concerns
Some passengers have raised issues with the driving quality in electric buses. One commuter, Pranathi R, said sudden braking made rides uncomfortable. It was later found that many drivers are outsourced staff. BMTC has been urged to ensure proper training for all drivers.
Faster Help for Emergencies
BMTC is now looking to upgrade its grievance redressal system. While the Namma BMTC app includes an SOS button, officials admit response times need improvement. Ideas like a WhatsApp chatbot are being explored for faster action during emergencies.
Infrastructure Still Lags Behind
Only 1,400 out of 9,000 bus shelters are currently electrified. BBMP has promised to improve this. Meanwhile, issues like buses not stopping at proper stops and poor upkeep of lounges and toilets鈥攅specially at major transit centres like Shantinagar TTMC鈥攃ontinue to trouble commuters.