Mysuru commuters oppose use of ageing BMTC buses for city services

Public transportation forms the backbone of urban and rural connectivity in India, serving as a lifeline for millions. However, state transport undertakings (STUs) often grapple with challenges like aging fleets, high maintenance costs, and increasing environmental concerns. It is against this backdrop that the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has embarked on a commendable bus refurbishment programme, turning a potential liability into an asset for sustainable public transport.

The genesis of such a programme often lies in the dual pressure of operational efficiency and public demand. Commuters frequently express dissatisfaction with the quality and safety of older buses, pushing transport corporations to either procure new vehicles—a capital-intensive endeavor—or innovate with existing resources. KSRTC chose the latter, demonstrating a commitment to resource optimization and environmental responsibility. The programme involves giving a new lease of life to older buses, a strategic move to extend their operational lifespan, enhance passenger comfort, and reduce the environmental footprint associated with manufacturing new vehicles.

Under this initiative, KSRTC has successfully refurbished approximately 1,520 buses, a significant number that reflects the scale of the effort. The work is meticulously carried out at the corporation’s regional and divisional workshops spread across Karnataka. This decentralized approach not only ensures efficient execution but also fosters skill development and employment opportunities at the local level. The success of this programme has not gone unnoticed; it has garnered several awards, specifically recognized for its innovation and sustainability. This recognition underscores KSRTC's pioneering role in adopting eco-friendly and economically viable practices within the public transport sector.

Key stakeholders in this initiative include the KSRTC itself, which conceptualized and implemented the programme. The State Government of Karnataka plays a crucial role through policy support, funding allocation, and regulatory oversight, ensuring KSRTC's operations align with broader state development goals. Commuters are direct beneficiaries, experiencing improved service quality, safety, and comfort, which in turn encourages greater public transport ridership. The skilled workforce at KSRTC's workshops, including engineers, mechanics, and technicians, are vital implementers, showcasing the human capital involved in such large-scale projects. Furthermore, suppliers of spare parts and materials also form an integral part of this ecosystem.

This initiative holds significant implications for India. Firstly, it champions the cause of **sustainability** by promoting a circular economy model—repairing and reusing rather than discarding. This aligns perfectly with India's commitments under the Paris Agreement and its broader environmental goals, such as reducing carbon emissions and managing waste. Secondly, it offers a **cost-effective solution** to fleet modernization, saving substantial public funds that would otherwise be spent on purchasing new buses. This economic prudence is vital for state-owned enterprises that often operate on tight budgets. Thirdly, it sets a **best practice example** for other state transport corporations across India, demonstrating how innovation can be integrated into traditional public services. Such initiatives contribute to improved urban mobility, reduced traffic congestion, and better air quality, all critical components of India’s push for 'Smart Cities' and sustainable urban development. Historically, state road transport corporations were established post-independence to provide reliable and affordable connectivity, especially in rural areas, under the framework of the Road Transport Corporations Act, 1950. Their evolution has seen them adapting to changing economic and technological landscapes, with refurbishment being a modern adaptation to maintain service quality.

From a constitutional and policy perspective, this program resonates with several provisions. The **Motor Vehicles Act, 1988**, and its subsequent amendments, particularly the **Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019**, emphasize vehicle fitness, road safety, and environmental compliance. Refurbishment directly addresses the maintenance of vehicle fitness standards. Moreover, the **Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP)**, particularly **Article 39(b) and (c)**, which speak of the distribution of material resources for the common good and preventing concentration of wealth, find an indirect connection. Efficient and affordable public transport contributes to the common good and equitable access to services. The **National Urban Transport Policy (NUTP), 2006**, also advocates for promoting public transport, and KSRTC’s efforts directly support this national vision by enhancing existing infrastructure.

The future implications of such programmes are vast. We can expect other STUs to adopt similar refurbishment models, leading to a nationwide improvement in public transport infrastructure. This could also pave the way for greater integration of new technologies into refurbished buses, such as GPS tracking, smart ticketing systems, and even retrofitting with electric powertrains, aligning with the **FAME India Scheme** for faster adoption and manufacturing of electric vehicles. Furthermore, it strengthens the 'Make in India' initiative by fostering local manufacturing and repair capabilities. In an era of rapid urbanization and increasing environmental consciousness, KSRTC's refurbishment programme stands as a testament to sustainable governance and a forward-looking approach to public service delivery.