New BMTC Routes Launched: KIA-8D, V-500HS, V-368, and 368
Transport and Muzrai Minister Ramalinga Reddy inaugurated 20 buses designated for four new BMTC routes, namely KIA-8D, V-500HS, V-368, and 368.
This fleet includes 12 new Vayu Vajra Volvo buses serving three distinct routes, along with eight regular buses dedicated to a single route within the city.
According to a press release from the BMTC, four Vayu Vajra buses will operate on each of the following new BMTC routes:
- Sarjapur and Hebbal (V-500HS)
- Shivajinagar and Bannerghatta (V-368)
- Sarjapur and Kempegowda International Airport (KIA-8D)
Additionally, eight regular buses will be in service between Shivajinagar and Bannerghatta National Park (368).
ಸಾರಿಗೆ ಸಚಿವರು ಮತ್ತು ಇತರ ಗಣ್ಯರು ಇಂದು ಹೊಸ ಮಾರ್ಗಗಳನ್ನು ಉದ್ಘಾಟಿಸಿದರು.
— BMTC (@BMTC_BENGALURU) February 20, 2024
Transport minister and other dignitaries Inaugurated New routes today. pic.twitter.com/2l4U4Iqzoo
New BMTC Routes in Details
The new routes were launched in response to the demand from passengers in Bengaluru city. The corporation is introducing these new routes, increasing transportation on existing routes, and adjusting operations according to passenger traffic to meet the needs of commuters.
BMTC Route V-500HS (Vayu Vajra)
BMTC route V-500HS will operate between Sarjapur and Hebbal via Dommasandra, Kodati Gate, Doddakannelli, Kadubisanahalli, and Marthahalli Bridge.
Four low-floor Volvo buses will be assigned to this route, conducting a total of 16 trips per day in both directions.
BMTC Route V-368 (Vayu Vajra)
BMTC route V-368 will operate between Shivajinagar and Bannerghatta National Park via Shanthinagar TTMC, Dairy Circle, Gurappanapalya, and Gottigere.
Four low-floor Volvo buses will be allocated to this route, conducting a total of 30 trips per day in both directions.
BMTC Vayu Vajra KIA-8D
BMTC KIA-8D route, connecting Sarjapur Road to the Airport, will have four buses operating 14 trips throughout the day, with 7 trips from each side.
The route includes stops at Domasandra, Kodathi Gate, Doddakanelli, Kadubeesanahalli, Marathalli Bridge, Hebbala, and Hunasamaranahalli.
Read about BMTC Vayu Vajra KIA-8D in detail.
BMTC Route 368
BMTC route 368 will have eight regular buses operating between Shivajinagar and Bannerghatta National Park, via Shanthinagar TTMC, Dairy Circle, Gurappanapalya, and Gottigere.
These buses will operate 60 trips throughout the day, providing commuters with convenient transportation options between Shivajinagar and Bannerghatta National Park.
The BMTC is the sole corporation providing transportation services to Bengaluru city and its surrounding areas.
Currently, 5,584 buses are operating, making 57,820 trips covering 11.4 lakh km every day. On average, 40 lakh passengers utilize the transportation facilities daily.
Following the implementation of the Shakthi scheme, a total of 1,174 additional round trips are being operated daily, as per the release.
BMTC’s Vayu Vajra Bus Service Proves Popular
BMTC’s Vayu Vajra buses have garnered significant praise from passengers for their efficient service, reliability, and convenience while commuting to and from the airport.
These buses have quickly become a convenient and cost-effective alternative to expensive private taxis.
In 2020, there were 123 Vayu Vajra services to Kempegowda International Airport. By December 2023, the number has increased to 144, with growing demands for additional services.
As a result, Vayu Vajra trips have increased from 793 a day in March 2020 to 912 a day by the end of December 2023.
As of February 2024, the BMTC runs 144 buses on 18 Vayu Vajra (airport) routes that make 988 round trips per day.
