• Source:JND
Add as a preferred

Bengaluru: In a major push to improve public transport in Bengaluru, the BMTC (Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation) has announced that the Bus Priority Lane (BPL) on the Outer Ring Road (ORR) between KR Puram and Silk Board Junction will be reintroduced by January 2026. The decision follows growing pressure from commuters and civic groups who have long advocated for faster and more dependable bus services in the city.

Why BPL Was Discontinued? BMTC

Initially launched as a pilot in November 2019, the BPL successfully reduced bus travel time by nearly 20 minutes. However, the project was short-lived due to Namma Metro construction on the ORR, which required around nine metres of road space for pillar work. This led to the removal of over 25,000 bollards, turning the dedicated lane into a general-purpose road, severely affecting its effectiveness.

What’s Changing Now ?

BMTC Managing Director Ramachandran R confirmed that the corporation is now collaborating with the Directorate of Urban Land Transport (DULT) and BBMP to revive the BPL with an improved design. The plan includes reinstallation of bollards in areas where Metro work has been completed and ensuring better access to service roads.

One of the key shortcomings of the earlier rollout was the lack of enforcement. Although rules were in place to restrict private vehicles from using the lane, they were often ignored due to a shortage of traffic police. This time, officials say stricter enforcement and monitoring will be implemented to keep the lanes exclusive for buses.

ALSO READ: ‘Hired On Friday, Fired On Monday’: Goa Founder Fires Senior Team Member For Disrespecting Junior Employee

Transport advocates have welcomed the move but argue that the city must go beyond a single corridor. Activist Vinay Sreenivas stressed the need for dedicated bus lanes across all major roads to address Bengaluru’s chronic traffic congestion.

ALSO READ: Amit Malviya Tears Into Congress On Aadhar-Voter ID Linkage, Calls INC’s Stand ‘Shameless Flip-Flop’

With over 42 lakh people depending on BMTC buses daily, transport authorities are under pressure to make the system more efficient, reliable, and attractive to commuters. The BPL relaunch is seen as a critical step in that direction.