BMTC's NICE-10 bus service hits milestone with 25 lakh passengers in a year

Bengaluru's BMTC has achieved a significant milestone with its NICE-10 bus service, ferrying over 25 lakh passengers between December 2023 and November 2024. The route connects Madavara on Tumakuru Road to Electronics City via NICE Road, offering a faster alternative to congested city roads.

The NICE-10 service, despite a combined toll and fare of Rs 65, has become a commuter favorite, clocking travel times of just 45-60 minutes. BMTC operates 21 buses on this route, alongside 15 buses on other NICE Road routes. However, NICE-10 remains the most popular, generating nearly Rs 10 crore in revenue over the year.

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BMTC Chief Traffic Manager (Operations), GT Prabhakar Reddy, reportedly highlighted the route’s success: Earnings per kilometre (EPKM) have risen from Rs 26 to nearly Rs 50, and over 10,000 commuters use this service daily. Monthly pass sales, priced at Rs 2,250, have also grown.

The efficient route allows buses to cover 360 km daily, nearly double the distance covered on city roads, with improved mileage of 5 km per litre compared to 3 km within city limits.

In response to demand, BMTC plans to introduce express services with minimal stops, reducing travel time further. Proposed extensions include routes to Bommasandra and Attibele, catering to industrial area commuters.

BMTC has also urged NICE Road authorities to waive toll fees for city buses to reduce operational costs, though no relief has been granted. Meanwhile, commuters are calling for improved amenities, including bus shelters and a passenger information system.