Politics

Bangalore Launches One Card for All Transport by 2026

The initiative plans integration of real-time data across BMTC, BMRCL and auto-rickshaw apps by March 2026 alongside an 803 km public transport network projected for 2031.

By Bangalore Policy Desk · Published 25 July 2026

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Karnataka's Mission Free Traffic-2026 sets out to launch a one city-one mobility card that links services from BMTC, BMRCL and auto-rickshaw apps, with real-time data integration targeted for March 2026. Bangalore residents who rely on multiple modes for daily travel stand to use a single card for buses, metro and other options once the system is active.

The Bengaluru Metropolitan Land Transport Authority remains not fully constituted as of early 2026, even though the Act was notified nearly two years earlier and draft rules appeared for public feedback only in January 2025. Brand Bengaluru's Agile and Sustainable Mobility for All report calls for immediate BMLTA implementation along with new cycle lanes, pedestrianisation measures, high lifetime vehicle taxes and congestion pricing.

Network Expansion Plans

The draft Comprehensive Mobility Planning policy prepared by DULT and BMRCL outlines an 803 km public transport network by 2031 that includes 317 km of metro and 177 km of suburban rail. Bangalore commuters could see expanded options on these routes if the timelines hold, though the policy documents do not specify exact fares or service frequencies.

Bangalore received the largest allocation of 4,500 electric buses under the central PM E-DRIVE scheme as of early 2026, ahead of Delhi and Hyderabad. Residents on existing BMTC routes may encounter more electric vehicles in the fleet as these units enter service.

Next Steps for Residents

Local transport agencies are expected to work on the mobility card rollout and data integration under the Mission Free Traffic-2026 framework. The Brand Bengaluru report further recommends congestion pricing and vehicle tax changes that would affect private vehicle owners in the city. Bangalore residents can review the published draft rules for BMLTA to understand how authority functions may develop.

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