Bus bay reduction at airport sparks outcry

Kempegowda Airport cut bus bays at T1 from 14 to 7, hurting BMTC’s Vayu Vajra service and causing daily losses of ₹3–4 lakh

The reduction of bus bays at Kempegowda International Airport’s Terminal 1 has triggered widespread objections from commuters and the Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC). The number of bays has been cut from 14 to just 7, with one entire row reportedly reserved for private taxis.

This move has dealt a significant blow to BMTC’s popular Vayu Vajra airport service. The corporation had planned to expand operations by deploying 50 new buses, but the lack of space now hinders that initiative. Currently, 156 Vayu Vajra buses operate across 22 routes, connecting the airport to various parts of Bengaluru, including long-distance services up to 65 km away to areas like Attibele and Jigani.

With reduced bays, buses are forced to leave immediately after arrival, limiting passenger boarding time. As a result, many travelers are missing buses and turning to taxis instead. Critics allege that the decision was made to facilitate private taxi operators, raising concerns about fairness and accessibility.

The impact on BMTC’s finances could be severe. Officials estimate that more than 1,000 passengers may be lost daily, translating into a revenue shortfall of ₹3–4 lakh per day. This comes despite the fact that Vayu Vajra fares are far cheaper than taxis, with the maximum ticket price capped at ₹430.

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Passengers, too, are feeling the burden. With 80% of airport bus users boarding from Terminal 1, the reduced bays are expected to cause crowding, delays, and inconvenience. Many fear that the affordability and reliability of BMTC’s airport service will be compromised if the issue is not addressed.

A bus bay is a designated area near arrival and departure terminals where buses halt for boarding and alighting. The airport’s decision to reduce this space has now become a flashpoint, sparking debate over whether public transport is being sidelined in favor of private operators.

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