BMTC electric bus accidents soar; Ramalinga Reddy to hold emergency review meeting today

A worrying rise in BMTC electric bus accidents has triggered driver protests and forced the transport department to act. Minister Ramalingareddy to hold a press meet today on the issue.

Bengaluru’s public transport network has hit turbulence as a surge in accidents involving BMTC’s electric buses has raised serious safety concerns across the city. Following a spate of fatal crashes, drivers of electric buses have taken to the streets in protest, accusing the system of being unsafe and unsustainable.

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The protests, which included brief work boycotts last week, left many commuters stranded. The agitation follows a troubling trend, BMTC’s own data reveals a steep rise in major accidents involving its electric fleet. The figures paint a grim picture: 54 serious cases were recorded in 2023-24, 53 in 2024-25, and 35 cases already registered this year till October 14. In just two and a half years, more than 140 severe accidents have been documented, many resulting in fatalities or serious injuries.

The spike has alarmed transport officials, prompting the department to take urgent corrective measures. Sources indicate that the government is considering strict disciplinary action, including the suspension or termination of drivers found responsible for reckless driving or negligence.

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In response to the growing outrage, Transport Minister Ramalingareddy has convened a press conference at 12:30 PM today at Vidhana Soudha, Room No. 315. The briefing is expected to outline the government’s next steps, from enhanced driver training and revised operational guidelines to the review of electric bus performance and safety audits.