Bengaluru CEO Takes Bus to Work, Stunned by Rs 6 Fare

Bengaluru CEO Takes Bus to Work, Stunned by Rs 6 Fare

In an era where transportation costs seem to be constantly rising, one Bengaluru-based CEO recently experienced a surprising moment of affordability. Deepak Shenoy, the CEO and founder of Capitalmind, took to social media to share his unexpected encounter with Bengaluru’s public transport system—an event that has since sparked a larger discussion on the importance and accessibility of affordable public transit.

An Unexpected Bus Ride

Shenoy, who typically walks to his office, was forced to look for an alternative means of commuting due to a knee injury. Opting for a short bus ride instead, he was taken aback when he discovered that the fare was only Rs 6.

“I took a bus for Rs 6 today and walked 30 minutes to the office. I'm still stunned that something costs just Rs 6,” he posted on X (formerly Twitter). His post not only highlighted the affordability of Bengaluru’s public transport but also drew attention to the convenience of digital payment options, as he was able to pay using a UPI QR scanner without the need for cash.

The Affordability of Public Transport

In a follow-up post, Shenoy elaborated on his experience. He mentioned that while he frequently uses public transport, such as air-conditioned buses and the metro—which often have higher fares—he had never realized just how inexpensive non-A/C bus rides were.

“I take public transport all the time—A/C bus and metro fares are usually higher. I typically walk short distances, but with my knee injury, I opted for a quick 1 km bus ride. Even then, I was surprised at how cheap it was,” he added.

Public Reaction: A Renewed Focus on Public Transport

Shenoy’s post quickly gained traction online, with many users praising him for shedding light on the city’s affordable public transport system. Several users commented on how crucial low-cost transportation is for the general public, particularly for the working class and lower-income groups.

One user responded, “That is surprisingly affordable in today’s times.” Another added, “Yes sir. It is interesting you threw light on public transport. The only way the public can improve their lives is through a cheap public transportation system, which can be a game changer for the poor and middle class. Public transport is the lifeline of any city for both locals and migrants.”

The Role of Public Transport in Urban Mobility

Bengaluru, often plagued by traffic congestion and increasing fuel prices, relies heavily on its extensive public transportation network, including BMTC (Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation) buses and the expanding metro system. Affordable bus fares ensure that thousands of residents, including daily wage workers, students, and office-goers, have a reliable and budget-friendly means of commuting.

With growing urbanization, the role of public transport is becoming even more critical in managing city-wide mobility. Experts believe that an efficient and well-funded transport system can significantly reduce dependence on private vehicles, leading to lower pollution levels, reduced traffic congestion, and a more sustainable urban environment.

Digital Payments: Making Public Transport More Accessible

One of the aspects that impressed Shenoy during his bus ride was the ease of digital payments. The integration of UPI and QR code-based payment systems in public transport has made commuting more seamless, reducing the reliance on cash transactions. For many, this advancement has made using public transport more convenient, as they no longer need to worry about carrying exact change.

This move aligns with Bengaluru’s broader push toward digital infrastructure, making public transportation more accessible and efficient.

Encouraging the Use of Public Transport

Shenoy’s experience has opened up an important conversation about the role and future of public transport in India’s urban centers. With metro networks expanding and bus services improving, there is hope that more people will switch to public transport as their primary mode of commuting.

However, challenges remain. Overcrowding, irregular service frequency, and the need for better last-mile connectivity are some of the concerns that must be addressed. If Bengaluru can enhance these aspects while maintaining affordability, public transport could become the go-to choice for even more residents.

Final Thoughts

Deepak Shenoy’s experience serves as a reminder that despite rising costs in various sectors, public transportation remains an accessible and budget-friendly option for many. His surprise at the Rs 6 fare has not only sparked an online discussion but has also shed light on the importance of investing in and supporting affordable transport solutions.

As Bengaluru continues to grow, the future of mobility in the city will depend on how well authorities can balance affordability, efficiency, and accessibility in public transport. For now, this small yet eye-opening experience highlights the ongoing value of a robust public transportation system—one that, at just Rs 6, remains a lifeline for the city’s commuters.