The Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) is testing an in-bus entertainment system that will offer web browsing, chatting, music, movies, and other services to passengers.
The system will deliver information, communication, and entertainment (ICE) services to passengers through a 7-inch touch screen in front of their seats. The system, dubbed as ‘ICE on Wheels’ will also offer services such as bus service information, and flight information.
Inaugurating the pilot project on Thursday, Transport and Home Minister R Ashoka said that other applications will soon be made available such as live stock updates, news reports, flight e-check-in, and horoscopes. “In my knowledge, this is the first such system anywhere in the world,” he added.
The service will be offered free of cost to passengers. “We will not be spending any money on installation of these systems on BMTC buses,” said Ashoka. EAFT Technologies, who have designed the systems, will generate revenue by displaying advertisements on the touch screen. “Not only will BMTC be spending money, but they will also earn a cut of the revenue earned through advertisements,” Ashoka added.
Initially, the pilot project will be tried out on three Volvo buses. After the trial run, the systems will be gradually introduced in almost 200 Volvo buses plying to the airport and Electronic City. A proposal to install the system on Karnataka State Transport Corporation (KSRTC) buses is also being explored.
Ashoka claimed that the addition of ‘ICE on Wheels’ will enhance BMTC’s reputation as one of the premier bus services in the world. “Foreigners who have come to India have praised the Vayu Vajra service as one of the best services that they have come across,” he said.
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