Participants at the 'Women on the Move' event in the city on Wednesday.
Credit: DH PHOTO/Asra Mavad
Bengaluru: Despite the success of the free bus travel scheme for women, Bengaluru’s transport system needs significant improvements, participants said at a mobility-focused event on Wednesday.
Titled 'Women on the Move', the event was held at Bangalore Creative Circus in Yeshwantpur, and was facilitated by the Sustainable Mobility Network, a coalition of 25 transport advocacy groups. It drew on a research report co-commissioned by social impact organisations Asar and Purpose.
Vendors, a student, and a social justice activist shared their commuting experiences.
While the Shakti scheme saves time and money, panellists said safety remains a major concern. The report noted that fare subsidies do not address safety, with most women stating that they had not seen improvements since the scheme’s launch.
Other issues raised included bus delays, unserved areas, and poorly lit, unsheltered bus stops. Panellists urged improved routes and timings, better infrastructure, and protection from harassment.
Participants also joined a workshop to discuss accessibility, safety, and operational efficiency across three case studies. The Sustainable Mobility Network will collate the findings and present them to the BMTC.
Improving safety features
The BMTC will install an additional security camera on electric buses, raising the number from four to five per bus.
"We are also planning to integrate our services with Suraksha, the SOS app of the Bengaluru Traffic Police as well," said Ramachandran R, Managing Director of BMTC.