Namma Metro urged to run e-scooters for last-mile links to stations

Bengaluru: The Bangalore Metro and Suburban Rail Passengers' Association has urged the authorities to operate electric rickshaws and scooters for last-mile connectivity from metro stations. 

On Monday, association president Prakash Mandoth called on BMRCL Managing Director M Maheshwar Rao and urged him to introduce electric rickshaws and scooters for last-mile connectivity from Majestic, KSR Bengaluru, Yeshwantpur, Rajajinagar, SV Road, Baiyappanahalli, KR Pura, Whitefield, Sampige Road, Jayanagar, KR market, and Chickpet metro stations. 

To better connect the CBD, the association suggested that the BMRCL operate minibuses to places like Mamulpet, Balepet, OTC Road Nagarathpet, SP Road, SJP Road, KR Market, Avenue Road, BVK Iyengar Road, JC Road, Lalbagh Road, Shanthinagar, Basavanagudi, and Gandhi Bazaar. 

He also sought the seamless integration of the metro stations with railway and bus stations. 

Additionally, the association urged the BMRCL to reinstate the 15% discount on smart cards and the 5% discount on QR code tickets, as well as increasing non-peak hour travel discount to 20%. 

Other demands include monthly passes for students with a 35% discount on the fare and extra top-ups on smart card recharges. 

The association believes that the BMRCL can increase non-fare revenue by leasing space inside trains during non-peak hours for freight services. It also demanded that the BMRLC repair toilets at Jayanagar and other stations.