Auto-BMTC combo to take you to BIA

Auto-BMTC combo to take you to BIA
Tuesday June 24 2008 09:01 IST

Express News Service

BANGALORE: Air passengers from the city will have one more commuting option to reach the Bangalore International Airport if the proposed tie-up between Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) and a group of autorickshaw drivers fructifies.

At present, BMTC is plying `Vayu Vajra’ Volvo buses between the city and BIA on more than eight different routes. These buses stop only at designated busstops. Unlike BMTC buses that ply intra city, these buses do not stop at all the bus stops.

`Auto Connect’, a unique concept to take the passengers from their door steps to the nearest Vayu Vajra stop through autorickshaws, is under serious consideration of the BMTC.

BMTC will tie up with 100 autorickshaws at the first stage. These dedicated autos will have a minimum fixed fare, which will be fixed by BMTC.

BMTC officials said that they were planning to introduce a combined ticket or pass valid for the combined service of dedicated autorickshaws and BMTC buses.

Autorickshaw drivers can purchase these passes or tickets from BMTC. The two service providers will share the ticket fare appropriately.

Autorickshaw drivers who join this scheme will get various benefits from BMTC, including free heavy vehicle driving training, free accident insurance of Rs 1 lakh in case of death and Rs 20,000 medical reimbursement in case of accidental injury. Drivers will also get free BMTC monthly commuter pass.