HSR Layout’s Bus Service Wins Resident Praise

Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation’s (BMTC) inaugural intra-layout feeder bus service in the Hosur Sarjapur Road (HSR) Layout has marked a successful first year, significantly benefiting the local community. Averaging over 100,000 passengers per month, this service has made a considerable impact on the daily lives of residents in this bustling area.

Launched on August 1, 2023, the service operates with ten BMTC buses that commence their routes from Agara at 6 am daily. These buses traverse all seven sectors of HSR Layout before returning to the starting point. The route covers a distance of 8.6 km, with each ticket priced at Rs 10. Additionally, the Shakti scheme offers free travel for women, further enhancing accessibility. BMTC officials report that around 5,000 passengers utilise this service each day.  Residents of HSR Layout, home to approximately 43,000 people and numerous educational institutions and businesses, have voiced their approval of the service. The buses alleviate parking issues and reduce reliance on expensive autorickshaws, also contributing to lower carbon emissions. One long-time resident noted the service’s impact on their family, highlighting how it has eased their personal transportation challenges and encouraged their son to use public transport independently.

The concept for this feeder service emerged from the 2020 Sustainable Mobility Accord (SuMA), a citizen-driven initiative by the HSR Citizen Forum and the HSR Cyclists group. According to the founder of HSR Cyclists, a survey identified feeder buses as a top priority among residents. Subsequently, both groups collaborated to map out bus stops and routes, facilitating the launch of this loop-based service. BMTC’s Managing Director praised the initiative, noting its role in reducing local congestion and improving public transportation. He highlighted the success factors, including the free service for women under the Shakti scheme, high operational frequency, and the overall convenience provided to passengers. The MD also indicated that if similar demand arises in other areas, BMTC would consider expanding the concept based on comprehensive route surveys.

Overall, the HSR Layout intra-layout bus service has been celebrated as a model of effective urban transportation planning, showcasing the potential for such services to enhance community mobility and infrastructure.