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Bengaluru's public transport landscape is set to undergo a significant transformation with the Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation's (BMTC) decision to introduce AC electric buses for airport commutes. These new e-buses are earmarked to replace the existing Volvo AC buses—popularly known as 'Vayu Vajra’—which have been ferrying passengers across 17 routes to the Kempegowda International Airport (KIA). Currently, about 140 Volvo buses are in operation, but with the arrival of the new fleet, these will be phased out in favor of the more environmentally friendly electric vehicles.
The shift toward electric buses comes in response to various factors that make airport routes particularly suitable for this transition. Notably, buses on these routes achieve higher utilization, covering about 300km per day, which is substantially more than the 200km average for city buses. This higher mileage per day positions airport routes as ideal candidates for the deployment of leased e-buses, ensuring that the fleet is used to its maximum potential. Moreover, this move aims to enhance the travel experience for air passengers, offering a more sustainable and potentially smoother ride to and from the airport.
BMTC's ambitious plan involves a leasing agreement with OHM Global Mobility, a subsidiary of Ashok Leyland, for a fleet of 320 AC e-buses. This arrangement, based on a gross cost contract, outlines that BMTC will compensate the private operator at a rate of Rs 65 per kilometer. The prototype of these e-buses is expected to arrive in Nov, post which, necessary tests will be conducted to ensure their readiness for passenger service. "Once we receive the prototype, necessary tests will be carried out. The private operator will start supplying buses after getting clearance from our end," a senior BMTC official elaborated. The corporation aims to have the entire fleet operational by March 2025, signifying a notable leap towards electrifying its services.
Adding to the urgency for this update is passengers' growing concerns over the ageing fleet currently servicing the airport routes. Despite the introduction of Vajra buses, meant for city commuting, to supplement the Vayu Vajra services post-pandemic, passengers have noticed no significant difference in their travel experience. Nevertheless, this transition to electric buses is seen as a positive step towards modernizing the fleet and maintaining the route's profitability and popularity among passengers, particularly those employed at the airport.
BMTC has been a critical player in connecting Bengaluru to its airport, located 34km away, for over 15 years. Services extend from the central business district to areas like Electronics City and Whitefield, catering to 13,000 to 14,000 passengers daily. Despite the rise of ride-hailing apps, these bus services have remained an affordable option for airport commuters. Currently, BMTC boasts a fleet of over 1,000 electric buses, albeit non-AC, operating within city limits, underscoring its commitment to sustainable urban mobility.
In conclusion, BMTC's initiative to roll out AC electric buses for airport routes reflects a broader move towards enhancing public transport infrastructure with an eye on sustainability, operational efficiency, and passenger comfort. This transition not only promises a better commute for air travellers but also sets a precedent for other cities to follow, marking a significant step in urban transport evolution.
