Tejasvi Surya’s Bold Call: Why Bengaluru’s Transport Chiefs Must Ride the Bus and Metro Daily

Tejasvi Surya’s Bold Call: Why Bengaluru’s Transport Chiefs Must Ride the Bus and Metro Daily

Bengaluru, a city known for its tech-driven hustle, also struggles with a major challenge—public transportation. With growing concerns about overcrowding, delays, and connectivity issues, Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya has taken a bold stand. He has urged the heads of BMTC (Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation) and BMRCL (Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited) to experience public transport firsthand by commuting via buses and metro daily.

Walking in the Commuters' Shoes

Tejasvi Surya believes that the only way to fix Bengaluru’s transport woes is for decision-makers to feel the daily struggles of commuters themselves. In a social media post on X, the two-time MP highlighted the disconnect between policymakers and everyday passengers. He pointed out that:

If the BMTC MD personally relied on buses, issues like delays, poor frequency, and lack of last-mile connectivity would be better understood and addressed.

If the BMRCL MD commuted via metro, they would experience overcrowding, station accessibility issues, and ticketing challenges firsthand.

His statement, "Unless you feel the pinch of the shoe, you won’t fix it," sums up the idea perfectly—real change happens when leaders live the experiences of those they serve.

Why This Approach Matters

1. Firsthand Problem-Solving

Currently, transport officials rely on data reports and feedback mechanisms, which often fail to capture the real struggles faced by commuters. Experiencing public transport daily would help them:

Identify the root causes of inefficiencies.

Understand where policy changes are most needed.

Experience the delays, discomfort, and safety concerns commuters face.

2. Accountability and Transparency

A hands-on approach would create a sense of responsibility among transport officials. If they experience issues directly, they would be more accountable for solving them rather than relying on second-hand reports.

3. Improving Public Trust

Bengaluru residents often feel that transport policies are made without understanding their daily struggles. If leaders actively engage with the system, it builds trust and reassures the public that their concerns are being taken seriously.

The Road Ahead: Will Officials Take Up the Challenge?

Tejasvi Surya’s proposal has sparked widespread discussion. Many commuters and citizens have supported the idea, hoping it leads to meaningful improvements. However, the real question remains—will Bengaluru’s transport officials accept the challenge and experience public transport like ordinary citizens?

If they do, it could be a game-changer for Bengaluru’s transport system. A leadership approach that prioritizes real-world experience over theoretical decision-making could pave the way for faster, more effective solutions.

What do you think? Should transport officials be required to use public transport daily? Let us know your thoughts!