BMTC launches new ‘Vegadootha’ express bus services on Tin Factory-H. Cross and Hoskote-Nelamangala routes
Karnataka Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy launches the new Vegadootha bus services for two key routes — Tin Factory to H. Cross and Hosakote to Nelamangala — on May 22, 2026. | Photo Credit: Special arrangement The Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) has launched new ‘Vegadootha’ limited-stop express bus services aimed at improving suburban connectivity and reducing travel time for commuters travelling across the city’s outskirts.On Friday (May 22), Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy launched the new bus services, which will operate on two key routes: Tin Factory to H. Cross and Hosakote to Nelamangala.According to BMTC, the corporation currently operates 6,275 schedules with nearly 65,945 daily trips, covering around 13 lakh kilometres and serving an average of 45 lakh passengers every day. The Vegadootha services, which already run on 11 routes connecting suburban towns, benefit nearly 60,000 passengers daily.As part of the expansion, a new route numbered EX-317HC will connect Tin Factory to H. Cross with seven schedules, operating 60 trips at a frequency of 30 minutes. Another route, EX-STRR-1, will connect Hosakote to Nelamangala with 11 schedules, providing a direct link that bypasses traffic congestion in central Bengaluru.The fare for the Tin Factory–H. Cross route has been fixed at ₹60, while the Hosakote–Nelamangala route will cost ₹110. The routes will pass through key points including KR Puram, Devanahalli, Doddaballapura, and other important suburban hubs.Officials said that the initiative follows the State government’s decision to extend the corporation’s operational jurisdiction from 25 km to 40 km under the Greater Bengaluru Authority limits. Published - May 22, 2026 06:16 pm IST
