Transport Minister N Ramalinga Reddy disclosed that no staff has been hired for BMTC in the last five years. However, BMTC officials stated that they have set a target to match bus services as they introduce many feeders and new routes.
To allegations that some had to pay extra to get an HSRP, Reddy said, if anyone has complaints they must report to the transport department. “We will probe and take action. Cases of serious and repeat complaints would be blacklisted.”
Meanwhile, Madhava D, another regular traveller, said, “During peak hours, many are taking up the BMTC buses. There are no seats, and people are forced to stand; then the ridership falls. During peak hours, more buses are required.”
As many as 800 AC Volvo buses operate under the Vajra and Vayu Vajra brands (for airport services). Vajra services primarily cater to Whitefield, Electronics City, and ORR. Sources indicate that BMTC intends to gradually phase out diesel buses and replace them with e-buses in the long run.