Bengaluru Metro rolls out trains wrapped in advertisements

Bengaluru Metro

In a bid to boost non-fare box revenue, the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has rolled out Metro trains wrapped in advertisements.

Moneycontrol was the first to report the development in an article titled "In a first, Bengaluru Metro to wrap trains with ads to boost revenue; tender to be floated soon", published on May 30, 2024.

BMRCL has entered into two separate agreements for seven years - with Mudra Ventures for the Purple Line and Lokesh Outdoor for the Green Line -granting them exclusive advertising rights on trains operating on these corridors.

Also, read: In a first, Bengaluru Metro to wrap trains with ads to boost revenue; tender to be floated soon

Officials said the minimum expected revenue from these contracts is Rs 25 crore per annum. It may be recalled that BMRCL recently implemented a fare hike of up to 71 percent.

However, some passengers have expressed concerns that the advertisements cover train windows, obstructing outside views.

Bangalore Metro Updates (@WF_Watcher), an X handle that tracks Metro developments, posted:
"Ruined the look of the trains in ONE go! I remember reading the windows wouldn’t be covered with ads - but of course, they went ahead and did it anyway. In the end, money talks, and that’s all that seems to matter. This also creates a security concern-since the view inside the train is now blocked, making it harder for security to monitor! #NammaMetro #Advertisements"

An official said, “The contract aims to create a vibrant, dynamic advertising environment, leveraging the high footfall and visibility of Bengaluru’s Metro corridors. Covering both train wrapping and interior advertising across trains on the Purple and Green lines, the initiative offers brands a unique opportunity to reach a wide and diverse commuter base. This marks a major step for BMRCL in tapping into innovative and sustainable revenue streams beyond fare box income.”