The Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation’s (BMTC) new non-AC limited-stop express services have struck a chord with passengers, particularly along the yet-to-be-operational Yellow Line metro corridor toward Attibele.

Within just a month of the launch, the express buses have recorded 3.72 lakh passengers and generated ₹1.09 crore in revenue.

Launched on June 21 by Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy, the services were designed to reduce travel time by limiting the number of stops on high-demand, semi long-distance routes. The five express routes operate between Kempegowda bus stand and Banashankari TTMC to Attibele, Devanahalli, Harohalli, and Nelamangala.

According to BMTC data accessed by The Hindu, the Kempegowda bus stand–Devanahalli service recorded revenue of ₹25.41 lakh, ferrying 73,754 passengers over 44,280 km. The Kempegowda–Nelamangala route transported 81,373 passengers and earned ₹22.22 lakh. The Kempegowda–Attibele line closely followed with ₹22.08 lakh in revenue and 78,018 passengers, while Banashankari–Attibele brought in ₹18.76 lakh with 71,423 passengers. The Banashankari–Harohalli route contributed ₹20.6 lakh by carrying 68,374 commuters.

Overall, the five routes collectively covered over 2.03 lakh km, achieving an average earning per kilometre (EPKM) of ₹53.68. The Kempegowda–Attibele route stood out with the highest EPKM at ₹57.06.

“These figures are a strong indication of the rising demand for efficient, semi long-distance public transport connecting Bengaluru to its outer zones. The express services are cost-effective, saving travel time for regular commuters while also proving to be a sustainable revenue model for the corporation. Earning over a crore in just a month is a significant achievement,” a senior BMTC official told The Hindu.

Currently, BMTC operates 48 express bus schedules with 348 daily trips at 20 to 30-minute intervals. BMTC has also introduced an express ordinary services monthly pass priced at ₹1,500 (excluding toll), now available digitally through the Tummoc app.

BMTC express buses bridge Yellow Line gap

These buses have become a dependable option for people living or working along the Yellow Line corridor especially areas like Attibele, Electronics City, Bommanahalli, Central Silk Board, and Bommasandra, where metro connectivity has been long delayed despite the work being completed.

Many commuters say they had hopes on the Yellow Line, but are now relying on BMTC’s express buses to travel. Sharanya R., a marketing executive who travels from Banashankari to Electronics City daily, said: “I used to spend nearly two hours commuting by changing multiple buses. Now, with the express service, I reach my office in just about an hour. The frequency is good, the fare is reasonable, and the comfort level is better because there are fewer stops. These buses have really helped those of us who have been waiting endlessly for the Yellow Line.”

Similarly, Suresh Joshi, a commuter residing near Attibele, said: “I had stopped taking BMTC buses due to the long commute and frequent delays. But these express buses changed that. They’re fast, reliable, and now my preferred choice for getting to work. Until the Yellow Line becomes operational, this service is a lifesaver for daily commuters like me.”