Startups to unveil solutions leveraging Bengaluru's real-time transit data

This challenge invites startups to develop an integrated solution that enables commuters to access real-time updates on public transit schedules

To enhance the mobility of the tech capital Bengaluru, a startup innovation challenge kicked off on June 12, where developers leverage the open data resources of the city's transit agencies.

This initiative follows the decision by the Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) and the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) to open up real-time transit data.

Also, read: Bengaluru's BMTC and Namma Metro to open up real-time transit data

'Enroute: A Mobility-As-A-Service Challenge', an initiative by Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India, Villgro, and WRI India, aims to enhance public transit efficiency and revolutionise public transportation in Bengaluru.

This challenge invites startups to develop an integrated solution that enables commuters to access real-time updates on public transit schedules, plan their journeys efficiently, and pay for all their tickets through one unified portal. By making transportation more accessible, efficient, and user-friendly, this initiative aims to significantly improve overall mobility in Bengaluru. The top three startups will receive seed funding support and the opportunity to pilot their solution on-ground.

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According to research by WRI India, around 70% of Bengaluru's metro users commute for work. However, their daily journeys are often impacted by obstacles such as increased wait times and lack of last-mile connectivity, which extend their commute time. To address these concerns, this startup innovation challenge seeks to integrate various modes of transport into a single-cohesive platform.

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Prof Rajeev Gowda, former Rajya Sabha MP who launched the initiative and emphasized the critical need for a unified transportation platform to enhance the commuting experience in Bengaluru, stated, “Enroute is a revolutionary step for Bengaluru’s mobility. The Challenge fits in with a lot of Karnataka government initiatives, and this promises to be an initiative that can serve as a model for transit networks across the country.”

Also, read: How poor last-mile connectivity has hit public transport use in Bengaluru

BMRCL managing director Maheshwar Rao said, “There is a lot of data available in public transport that is not used to the maximum. If there is anything that we can do to make commuting convenient, we should do it. We believe some interesting solutions can emerge from this challenge.”

Manu Saale, managing director and CEO, Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India, said, “India’s vibrant startup ecosystem exemplifies the spirit of innovation that we champion at MBRDI. This initiative will unlock the potential of data in addressing the unique needs of Bengaluru's commuters and enhancing their mobility experience.”

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Pawan Mulukutla, executive director (integrated transport, clean air & hydrogen), WRI India said, "Open data in Bengaluru's public transport is not just a technological advancement; it's a step towards smarter, more efficient, and inclusive urban mobility. By combining innovative solutions with transit data, Enroute aims to empower citizens with real-time information, enhance public transport reliability, and foster innovation that can transform Namma Bengaluru".

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Ananth Aravamudan, chief of programme & strategy, Villgro said, “Our goal is to solve for public mobility by encouraging the development of smart, efficient, and user-friendly transportation solutions. We call upon startups to join us in this exciting journey, an opportunity to access public transportation data to develop solutions.”

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