To address the pressing commuter needs of Bengaluru’s surrounding regions, the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has announced plans to launch premium Ashwamedha AC buses. This move is set to redefine daily travel within a 100-kilometre radius of Bengaluru, providing a reliable, comfortable alternative for thousands of daily commuters from towns like Ramanagara, Kolar, Tumakuru, Mandya, and Hosur. Currently, the long hours spent commuting leave many workers exhausted even before reaching their offices, with overcrowded buses impacting not only health but also productivity. The new Ashwamedha AC buses, tailored to meet these demands, aim to alleviate the challenges of daily travel with upgraded comfort and seating.
The initial Ashwamedha bus series, launched in early 2024 with 750 buses, is already a mainstay for point-to-point travel across Karnataka, connecting Bengaluru with various district headquarters. With over 1,200 regular and premium services operating in the state, KSRTC’s existing fleet is heavily used, often resulting in packed buses. The demand for more spacious, comfortable travel options has been especially vocal among commuters to Bengaluru’s bustling IT and business districts. A KSRTC study reveals that 74% of commuters report crowding and a lack of basic amenities on public transport as a major inconvenience. The introduction of the AC Ashwamedha buses is expected to bring substantial relief, enabling efficient, comfortable transit even during peak hours.
Beyond offering enhanced comfort, KSRTC’s new buses will contribute to a sustainable urban transport model. The premium Ashwamedha AC buses will include air conditioning, spacious seating, and modern amenities such as charging ports. These modifications not only address passenger comfort but also promote sustainability by encouraging more people to shift from private to public transport, reducing overall vehicular emissions. KSRTC Managing Director announced that a feasibility study will determine optimal routes and service timings based on commuter demand and peak hours, to ensure a practical, eco-friendly approach to urban mobility.
Bengaluru’s rapidly growing commuter population has highlighted civic issues tied to urban expansion, and the Ashwamedha AC series exemplifies a proactive approach by KSRTC to address them. With an urban landscape challenged by daily congestion, Bengaluru’s transport strategy hinges on reducing road congestion, creating alternative transport routes, and offering public services that discourage private vehicle dependency. Through its upgraded AC buses, KSRTC not only provides relief for today’s commuters but also sets a progressive example in urban planning, sustainability, and community welfare. This shift towards sustainable, people-centric public transport could serve as a model for other Indian cities facing similar challenges.
