In just over a fortnight’s time, after the BMTC launched an app to provide real-time information on its bus services, commuters seem to be travelling smart with the Android app downloaded over 10,000 times.
Part of the recently launched Intelligent Transport System, the app provides details of buses scheduled to arrive and depart bus stations at Majestic, Shivaji Nagar and City Market, and those in Traffic Transit Management Centres.
“The app is a blessing, as I don’t have to spend long hours standing at the bus stop or bus station. I usually travel on G4 route (Bannerghatta Road-Brigade Road) to reach my office on Brigade Road. Now I leave my house only after checking the expected arrival of my bus at the bus stop. A lot of time and energy is saved this way,” said Geetika Seth, a HR professional.
Another app user and IT professional Rashmi Srivasatava said the ‘Trip planner’ option available on the app helped her. “I need to choose a start point and the end point and all the information related to buses, bus stops, bus frequency is made available on the app. Travelling has been convenient so far,” she added.
While the app may be creating its set of followers, customers, however, have been demanding more from BMTC on increasing the bus routes.
Meanwhile, traffic expert, M.N. Sreehari said the BMTC app will be useful only when BMTC expands its fleet. “What is the point of having an app when there are no buses available? BMTC should focus on expanding and revamping the fleet. Everyone today is tech savvy and will download any new app that will make their life easier. There can be 1 lakh downloads of the app but the point here is that public transport should be workable for the people.
A senior BMTC official said, “The amount of data that the ITS is generating is staggering and we are still in the process of absorbing it. Our employees are now realizing that all information is online and that their actions have real-time effects. Passengers can always request for new routes through the website ‘need more buses’ section. We have introduced routes through this method already and will continue to do so.”
