Guest column: They must list schedules and fares of buses to help commuters

Today, bus stands are not meant for passengers to board or alight from buses. They have become a parking place for autos, lorries and tempos and also markets for flower vendors.

It is unfortunate that the BBMP and BMTC, which are the custodians, have no coordination between each other. The condition of bus stands is so bad that commuters cannot even stand under them and wait for buses.

These bus shelters have no mention as to which stop it is and there is no system to display the bus schedules or fares. This discourages people from opting for public transport services, especially buses - which are popular across the world.

Though bus stands are meant for BMTC buses, they are hardly used for that purpose as buses do not stop at designated spots as other vehicles occupy the slots.

The BBMP has failed to maintain bus shelters as they are not serious about it. A lot of money is spent, but the condition of these shelters tells a different story. It is apparent that the funds meant for their construction and upkeep are being misused.

Unless the BBMP, BMTC and Bengaluru traffic police work in tandem, it is no use spending such large amounts of money on building and maintaining these shelters.

The scene on the Outer Ring Road (ORR) is alarming. Because bus stops are so poor, passengers wait at some place and buses stop at some other place. During morning peak hours when there is a big rush, passengers run behind buses which can not only be dangerous but also fatal.

It is unfortunate that local corporators and other elected representatives, who give their funds for the upkeep of bus stands, don’t even bother to check their condition. Ward committee members should discuss these issues at their monthly meetings and hold someone accountable.