BMTC starts full bus-wrap advertisements; aims to generate ₹3 crore revenue every month

Currently, the BMTC has 6,158 buses, of which 1,027 are electric buses.
| Photo Credit: File Photo

In a move to enhance revenue generation through alternative means, the Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) has started to fully wrap its 3,000 non-AC buses with advertisements. This marks a departure from the previous practice of allowing advertisements only on the rear side of buses.

BMTC officials estimate this initiative will generate over ₹3 crore revenue every month.

A senior BMTC official said, “We have awarded a tender to wrap buses with advertisements, creating an alternative revenue stream. Each bus will provide approximately 350 sq.ft of advertising space, covering areas such as louver glass and the driver’s back panel. However, window glass and passenger seat backs are excluded from advertising. Additionally, handle grips and seat backs will be utilised for advertising purposes.”

Adherence to guidelines

The advertisements will strictly comply with the Outdoor Signage and Public Messaging Bye-laws of the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP). BMTC officials also assured that critical information on buses, such as the BMTC logo, vehicle registration number, and depot details, will remain unobstructed.

To address environmental concerns, BMTC has opted for eco-friendly materials for these advertisements. Officials stated that these materials will not leave stains or cause damage when removed, ensuring the buses maintain their aesthetic appeal. Additionally, as per government regulations, all advertisements will include Kannada text. “The buses will remain visually appealing, and the materials used will not compromise their appearance,” an official added.

Passenger visibility concerns

In 2018, stickers were removed from the lower glass panels of 4,000 buses after passengers raised concerns. BMTC officials said that they have now ensured that the new wraps will use transparent materials to maintain clear visibility from inside the buses.

Commuters have expressed mixed opinions about the new initiative. Pavithra H.G., a frequent BMTC user from Vijayanagar, said, “It’s a great idea to utilise buses as advertising platforms without affecting passenger convenience. It’s also good to know that the materials won’t harm the buses.”

However, Rajesh K., another commuter, from Rajajinagar disagreed, saying, “While the revenue is necessary, the advertisements might still be distracting for passengers. Clear visibility from all windows should be the priority and people might get confused about the BMTC bus since it may look like private buses which carry factory and IT employees.”

Cost and revenue

The cost of installing advertisements on each bus ranges from ₹12,000 to ₹13,000. With 3,000 buses set to feature advertisements, BMTC anticipates a substantial boost to its income. Currently, the BMTC has 6,158 buses, of which 1,027 are electric buses.

In the financial year 2023-24, BMTC earned ₹811 crore through non-traffic revenue streams such as leasing land, bus station spaces, stalls, offices, and parking facilities. Advertisements on the rear of buses also contributed to this figure.

The BMTC’s initiative follows a similar effort by the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL), which issued a tender in October 2024 to wrap metro train coaches with advertisements as part of its non-fare revenue strategy. So far, only one train has been wrapped, though not for commercial purposes. In March 2022, the BMRCL wrapped a train with visuals and slogans celebrating India’s freedom struggle as part of the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ programme.

Published – January 26, 2025 09:16 pm IST

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