Technology to go on board 500 BMTC buses to help visually impaired

Bengaluru: In a move towards inclusivity in public transport, the Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) has partnered with technology company Continental to launch 'OnBoard', a technology solution for the visually impaired. 

Following a successful pilot of 25 buses in 2023, as part of CSR by Continental, the project has now been extended to over 100 buses. Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy launched it on Saturday. The launch included a live demonstration. 

Developed at IIT Delhi, the device allows individuals with visual impairment to identify bus route numbers and locate the entry door positions using audio cues from a bus-mounted speaker. It is currently being facilitated by Raised Lines Foundation, an IIT Delhi-incubated nonprofit. 

Under the initiative, a total of 500 BMTC buses are set to get the device by August 2025, with 400 vehicles slated to get them in mid-July. The device has currently been installed in buses on the 401K and 401R routes. 

Speaking at the event, BMTC Managing Director R Ramachandran said, "This project is a flagship initiative for inclusive urban mobility in Bengaluru. At the BMTC, we are fully committed to this initiative and are aligning all internal efforts to ensure its smooth and timely deployment across our fleet."