Hyderabad
Telangana State Road Transport Corporation (TSRTC) is thinking of the idea of introducing 'Night Riders' across Hyderabad's major corridors after 10 pm to challenge app-based cab aggregators. A survey by depot managers suggests that TSRTC is planning to run these night buses from Hayathnagar to Patancheru and other high-traffic routes such as Koti to Lingampally and Mehdipatnam to Uppal X Road.
The TSRTC authorities plan to run the buses in the 'another shift' from 10 pm to 4 am. According to an official in TSRTC, they might not be able to operate these buses at the usual ticket prices. However, if the passengers are willing to pay premium charges, they will be able to cover the operational costs. As of now, there appears to be good potential on these routes. The proposals have been sent to TSRTC Managing Director VC Sajjannar for consideration.
The officials have recorded the response from passengers on the Hayathnagar-Patancheru stretch and included it in the report to the Head Office.
The officials also interacted with many passengers who complained about app-based bike taxis and cabs and their inconveniences, such as hefty costs and last-minute cancellations. The officials also interacted with female passengers who boarded the buses during the night period and got encouraging feedback in terms of safety.