The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has just introduced Volvo multi-axle buses with chemical toilets and in-built pantry. Initiated on an experimental basis, such buses will soon be introduced throughout the State.
Mr. R. Ashoka, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister, and Minister for Home & Transport, inaugurated the service of six KSRTC multi-axle buses, of which two are known as Airavat Bliss and the other four as Airavat Superia.
The inaugural function was attended, among others, by Mr. B.N. Vijayakumar, MLA, Mr. P.B. Ramamurthy, Principal Secretary, Transport Department of Karnataka, Mr. N. Manjunatha Prasad, KSRTC Managing Director, and Mr. K.R. Srinivasa, BMTC Managing Director.
With this, KSRTC takes passenger comfort to a new level. The aqua flush toilet system uses an effective freshwater flushing system whilst at the same time utilizing and controlling the available fresh water supply efficiently. Salient features of the system include dashboard controls for all cubicle action, auto flush even after the passenger has left the toilet and hand-wash with “10 seconds” water saving operation.
The fresh water flushing system based on the latest tested technology has been developed for the demanding commercial coach environment. The design focuses on a long-term reliability, powerful flushing action and easy access for service purposes. It also allows retrofitting of existing cubicles at low costs and effort.
Airavat Bliss buses are
provided with in-built oven, freezer and coffee-maker which help commuters to heat up the food and prepare their snacks and meals on board.
For the first time in India, KSRTC brings live TV, personalized in-bus entertainment with technical support from Integration Consultancy Services and powered by Airtel TV.
To cater to the growing commuter needs of Bangalore and to decentralize bus operations for better passenger access, KSRTC is constructing yet another state-of-the-art satellite bus station at Peenya at a cost of Rs. 32 crores. It will be operational soon.
KSRTC has also the pride of place in recruiting drivers and driver-cum-conductors through computerized driving tests. On the same lines, this year counselling has been organized for drivers and driver-cum-conductors. They are posted at places based on their performance and also as per their choice and option.
Based on the success of this initiative, KSRTC has introduced city services at Hassan, Davangere, Kolar, Mandya, Gadag and Betageri.
The Corporation has also introduced the intelligence transport system (ITS) which helps in providing real-time information of the location and direction of city buses and facilitates two-way voice communication between the control room and the driver. In case the road ahead is blocked, the control room can alert the bus driver so that he can use an alternative route.