1,749 villages lack State-run bus connectivity in Karnataka
Data from the Karnataka Transport Department reveals that 1,749 villages lack state-run bus connectivity, with 325 of those lacking suitable road infrastructure. The government plans to address these gaps through new schedules and vehicle procurement in the 2026-27 fiscal year.
Why it matters
Lack of public transport in rural areas significantly hinders socio-economic development and access to essential services like education.
As many as 1,749 villages in Karnataka remain without bus services operated by the State-run transport corporations, according to Transport Department data. Of these, 325 villages do not have roads suitable for bus services, or the movement of heavy vehicles, posing a major challenge to extending public transport connectivity.
The four State-run transport corporations — Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC), Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC), North Western Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (NWKRTC), and Kalyana Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (KKRTC) — are expected to collectively cover 32,977 villages across Karnataka.
Transport facilities are currently available in 31,228 villages, while 1,749 villages remain without State-run bus connectivity.
“The current action plan for the 2026–27 financial year proposes measures to arrange new schedules and provide the required bus facilities,” an official said.
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