BENGALURU: The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has been honoured with the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs’ Award of Excellence for its inclusive mobility initiative, “Dhwani Spandana.” The project, implemented across 200 Mysuru City buses, aims to assist visually impaired passengers in identifying and boarding buses through assistive audio technology.
Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar presented the award, recognising KSRTC’s outstanding contribution under the Best Urban Transport Projects category for the previous year.
Making public transport inclusive
Under the Dhwani Spandana initiative, buses are equipped with an on-board bus identification and navigation system that allows visually challenged passengers to detect approaching buses using audio cues. This system enhances accessibility and safety for commuters who rely on public transport.
KSRTC has also trained over 400 visually impaired users to effectively operate and benefit from the system. The initiative demonstrates the corporation’s commitment to making Karnataka’s urban transport network inclusive and user-friendly for all sections of society.
Recognition for innovation
Officials said that the award highlights the state’s progressive approach to integrating assistive technologies in public transport. “Dhwani Spandana is a step toward making mobility accessible for everyone. KSRTC is proud to lead such inclusive innovations in the transport sector,” an official statement noted.
The project has been well received by Mysuru’s commuters, especially by those with visual impairments, who say the technology has significantly improved their travel confidence and independence.
The Union ministry’s award serves as recognition of Karnataka’s continuous efforts in adopting smart, inclusive, and sustainable transport solutions that prioritise passenger convenience and social equity.