Karnataka Renovates Bus Fleet to Enhance Commuter Safety

Gadag: Taking a step to improve transportation services for daily commuters and schoolchildren, the North Western Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (NWKRTC) has initiated a project to renovate its aging fleet of buses.

NWKRTC, the state-run public transport service, operates across six districts—Belagavi, Dharwad, Gadag, Haveri, Bagalkot, and Uttara Kannada—where many remote villages rely on these buses as a vital lifeline.

For people in these places, the arrival of a bus means more than just a ride—it connects them to opportunities, education, healthcare, and livelihoods. Out of 4,610 villages, 4,565 which have motorable roads have access to bus services. About 25 lakh passengers rely on NWKRTC buses every day.

Stressing on reliable and safe transportation, NWKRTC has already renovated 68 old buses at their regional workshop in Hubballi, with plans to renovate another 32 by the end of the year. The project, funded by the Directorate of Urban Land Transport and NWKRTC’s internal resources, is more than just a technical upgrade. The buses are being equipped with new bodies, modern flooring, clear windshields, and comfortable seats. Instead of just a bus, these improvements promise a safer, smoother, and more comfortable journey for the passengers.

Renovating buses is an ongoing effort, but this time NWKRTC is taking it to a larger scale, officials told Deccan Chronicle. They explained that each bus is carefully assessed for distance covered and overall condition before being recommended for renovation. Once approved by the Managing Director, the necessary upgrades are carried out.