Bengaluru adopts GTFS data format, paving way for seamless multimodal transit with ‘Namma Transit' launch
Marking this shift, Namma Yatri launched 'Namma Transit' on Friday, a new feature within its app designed to unify bus, metro and first- and last-mile services into a single, guided journey. With real-time multimodal navigation, the feature informs users which metro station to head to, which platform and gate to use, and how to connect with autos or cabs – all in one app.
'Currently, the feature is open to only select users. In the coming days, the feature can be accessed by all of them,' said Shan M S, Chief Operating Officer, Namma Yatri.
At the core of this transformation is GTFS, an open data format for public transit schedules and real-time updates, used globally in over 6,000 cities.
GTFS data allows journey planners like Namma Yatri and Tummoc to combine schedules, live vehicle locations, and route maps from multiple operators into one accessible interface. For commuters, this means they can now check when the next bus or train is arriving, whether it aligns with their travel needs, and even plan onward connections with autos – all in real time. The availability of this data facilitates smarter trip planning, faster commutes, and improved last-mile accessibility.
The adoption of GTFS was enabled through collaboration among public agencies and private innovators. The Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) IT team standardised and streamed real-time data from over 6,000 buses, sending updates every 10 seconds – a complex task that required months of technical effort and coordination.
The initiative also stems from the #EnRoute Innovation Challenge, supported by World Resources Institute (WRI) India, Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India, and Villgro, which brought together service providers like Namma Yatri and Tummoc to develop commuter-centric, interoperable solutions.
'When commuters can easily find cost-effective, fast, and reliable transport options, the dependence on personal vehicles reduces. Knowing exactly which bus to take, how far it is, and whether last-mile options are available – even during a rainy evening – makes public transport a dependable option,' added Shan.
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Indian Express
7 hours ago
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Bengaluru adopts GTFS data format, paving way for seamless multimodal transit with ‘Namma Transit' launch
In a significant step towards transforming Bengaluru's public transport ecosystem, the city has formally adopted the General Transit Feed Specification (GTFS) through the India Urban Data Exchange (IUDX) platform. The move is significant, as it lays the digital groundwork for seamless integration across metro, bus, and last-mile services. Marking this shift, Namma Yatri launched 'Namma Transit' on Friday, a new feature within its app designed to unify bus, metro and first- and last-mile services into a single, guided journey. With real-time multimodal navigation, the feature informs users which metro station to head to, which platform and gate to use, and how to connect with autos or cabs – all in one app. 'Currently, the feature is open to only select users. In the coming days, the feature can be accessed by all of them,' said Shan M S, Chief Operating Officer, Namma Yatri. At the core of this transformation is GTFS, an open data format for public transit schedules and real-time updates, used globally in over 6,000 cities. GTFS data allows journey planners like Namma Yatri and Tummoc to combine schedules, live vehicle locations, and route maps from multiple operators into one accessible interface. For commuters, this means they can now check when the next bus or train is arriving, whether it aligns with their travel needs, and even plan onward connections with autos – all in real time. The availability of this data facilitates smarter trip planning, faster commutes, and improved last-mile accessibility. The adoption of GTFS was enabled through collaboration among public agencies and private innovators. The Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) IT team standardised and streamed real-time data from over 6,000 buses, sending updates every 10 seconds – a complex task that required months of technical effort and coordination. The initiative also stems from the #EnRoute Innovation Challenge, supported by World Resources Institute (WRI) India, Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India, and Villgro, which brought together service providers like Namma Yatri and Tummoc to develop commuter-centric, interoperable solutions. 'When commuters can easily find cost-effective, fast, and reliable transport options, the dependence on personal vehicles reduces. Knowing exactly which bus to take, how far it is, and whether last-mile options are available – even during a rainy evening – makes public transport a dependable option,' added Shan.
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Hindustan Times
a day ago
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117 hours in traffic? 95% in Bengaluru open to public transport with better last-mile access
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