Karnataka: Refurbished BMTC buses bolster KSRTC fleet in tier 2 and 3 cities

Karnataka’s tier 2 and 3 cities are witnessing a revival in urban mobility, as retired Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) buses return to service under a major refurbishment drive led by the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC). The initiative is aimed at enhancing public transport coverage while cutting capital expenditure.

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KSRTC has procured 250 decommissioned BMTC buses, priced between ₹1.5 lakh and ₹2.5 lakh each. An additional ₹3 lakh per vehicle is being spent on thorough refurbishments, including engine upgrades, new interiors, and full body overhauls. Before deployment, these buses undergo stringent inspections and receive fitness clearance from Regional Transport Offices.

Each refurbished vehicle, originally used for over 8 lakh kilometres, is restored to operational condition within 960 hours, involving approximately 120 workers. Only buses in structurally sound condition, corrosion-free, and with at least three years of service life remaining are selected. Components such as window panels, seats, dashboards, and lighting systems are entirely replaced.

Over the last two years, KSRTC has refurbished around 1,500 buses, including city and AC coaches, resulting in savings of over ₹300 crore. The effort, launched in the aftermath of pandemic-induced financial constraints, has earned the corporation multiple accolades.

Refurbishment operations are carried out at KSRTC’s regional and divisional workshops across Karnataka, enabling sustainable fleet expansion and improved passenger experiences without the high costs of new vehicle procurement.