Copyright thehindu
The Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) is set to roll out Digital Bus Information Displays (DBIDs) across key bus stations in the city to provide passengers with real-time updates on bus arrivals, bay locations, and service alerts. The smart display system, which will also double as an advertising platform, is part of BMTC’s efforts to improve commuter experience and information access at its terminals, according to officials. BMTC officials said that the corporation has invited bids for the installation, operation, and maintenance of DBIDs at 22 major bus stations under two packages, covering a total of 186 digital display units including four large video walls. “The five-year project, extendable by up to three years, allows the selected agency to operate the displays in lieu of advertisement rights,” a senior official told The Hindu. Each display will be a 55-inch full-HD LED screen, with live data integrated from BMTC’s Passenger Information System (PIS) and Automatic Vehicle Location System (AVLS) to show Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA), bay-wise information and wayfinding guidance in Kannada and English. “These digital displays will not only modernise the look of our bus stations but also make travel more predictable and passenger-friendly. Commuters will be able to see real-time bus arrival information, route updates, and important public announcements,” official explained. The official added that the system will be backed by a centralised Network Operations Centre (NOC) that monitors uptime and display health. “The displays will operate at a minimum 90 per cent uptime every day. Any downtime will be flagged immediately to ensure repairs within 24 hours,” the official added.. Each screen will automatically switch on and off at pre-set times and can also broadcast emergency messages or live news feeds when required. BMTC will utilise 50 per cent of the screen time for official announcements, while the remaining half can be used by the licensee for advertisements, subject to content restrictions. “The Digital Bus Information Display is a step towards making our bus stations smarter and more informative. It will help commuters plan their journeys better while generating non-fare revenue for BMTC through advertising,”official said.
