Transport minister plans to write to Union minister HDK over problems caused by electric bus drivers

BENGALURU: The Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC), a lifeline for Bengaluru’s residents, has been facing issues since the introduction of eco-friendly electric buses (EV buses). The problems stem from bus drivers employed by the operating private company, who indulge in reckless driving, are involved in numerous accidents and disregard traffic rules.

Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy is planning to write a letter to Union Heavy Industries Minister H D Kumaraswamy about solving the electric bus drivers’ issues. These EV buses drivers are not under BMTC’s control and have been involved in protests, stopping bus services abruptly without prior notice and causing inconvenience to passengers. This has led to negative publicity for BMTC.

The EV buses, launched with central and state government funding, aim to save diesel costs and reduce environmental harm. Hundreds of electric buses were deployed in the city under the FAME scheme of the central government.

However, the current rules are proving detrimental to BMTC. The operating company employs drivers and handles their responsibilities, leaving them outside BMTC’s jurisdiction. This has led to unchecked behavior, including rash driving and accidents, with complaints piling up against EV bus drivers.

Public TV has consistently reported on these issues, highlighting the problems caused by EV bus drivers. The drivers have also been protesting by stopping buses suddenly without notice, citing unpaid salaries and benefits.

This has sparked public discussion and complaints to the transport minister. To address these issues and protect BMTC’s reputation, Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy wrote a letter to Union Minister Kumaraswamy, seeking a permanent solution.

Reddy has prepared the letter and will send it to the Union minister, highlighting the problems caused by EV bus drivers and seeking resolution.