Opening up BMTC , BMRCL data : Can it ease first , last - mile connectivity woes in Bengaluru ?

The Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) and the Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) are set to revolutionize public transport in Bengaluru by sharing real-time transit data with mobility start-ups. This collaboration aims to address the first and last-mile gaps in daily commutes, enabling seamless transitions between different modes of transport. The Enroute: A mobility-as-a-service challenge has showcased how this data sharing can be utilized to plan trips by bus, Metro, or walking, complete with detailed itineraries. Start-ups like Namma Yatri and Tummoc have won the challenge and are now integrating this data into their products, offering features like live-tracking of buses and metros, crowd-tracking, and ticket-based tracking. The General Transit Feed Specification (GTFS) data, which provides information on bus and Metro schedules and ticketing, is a game-changer. It allows commuters to estimate arrival times, plan their journeys, and even choose less crowded options. However, the reliability of shared mobility options like cabs and auto rickshaws remains a challenge, as their availability can be unpredictable. To address this, journey planning apps are expanding their partnerships with various mobility providers, ensuring commuters have multiple options to choose from. This collaboration between public transport agencies and start-ups aims to create a more connected and digitally accessible transport network, attracting a new generation of commuters to public transport. The success of this initiative will depend on the effective integration of data from bus and Metro agencies into the start-ups platforms. Improving operational and physical integration of first and last-mile modes with public transport terminals is crucial for the Mobility as a Service (MoS) platform to work effectively. In conclusion, the sharing of real-time transit data between BMTC, BMRCL, and mobility start-ups has the potential to transform public transport in Bengaluru. By addressing the first and last-mile gaps, commuters can enjoy seamless transitions between different modes of transport, making daily commutes more efficient and convenient. However, the reliability of

Source: thehindu.com
Published on 2024-09-25

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