Bangaloreans can enjoy Volvo comforts

Bangaloreans can enjoy Volvo comforts
DNA Correspondent
Monday, October 20, 2008 20:57 IST
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BANGALORE: Come November 1, the much harried commuters of the Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) yearning for a comfortable ride will have a reason to cheer.

The BMTC is pressing into service from this Karnataka Rajyotsava Day Marcopolo luxury buses from the stable of Tatas.

The Marcopolo buses will not only provide comforts on par with Volvo buses but also do so at a much lesser fare.

Announcing this here on Monday, transport minister R Ashok said the low floor, airconditioned Marcopolo buses cost only Rs 55 lakh each as against Rs 72 lakh for a Volvo bus. The luxury buses from the Tatas have the same comfort, carrying capacity and attractive look.

"The low price and maintenance costs will enable us to provide the services at a lower tariff fare for the commuters in comparison to Volvo buses already introduced by BMTC."

The Marcopolo service would be launched in the city on a trial basis with two buses from November 1 and the number would be ramped up depending on the commuter response during the next three months of the trial run, Ashok said.

The BMTC would also phase out about 1,200 old buses and replace them with new ones. The old buses would be disposed of through public auctioning.

Referring to private maxicabs eating into the revenue of BMTC in the city, the minister said the government was mulling banning their entry into the city.

"We are seriously considering restricting their operations on Outer Ring Road and areas beyond that," he added.