Uber and Gurugram Metropolitan City Bus Limited (GMCBL) today launched a partnership making it possible for commuters to book and pay for their seats in Gurgaon’s public transport buses using the Uber app. This pilot will start with Gurugaman CNG AC buses on top two routes during peak commute hours. Commuters will be able to pre-book seats, follow the live location and route of the bus, and know its expected time of arrival (ETA), just like they can do with an Uber cab.

The two routes where this pilot will operate include Badshahpur bus stand to DLF Cyber Park (Shankar Chowk) via Huda City Centre metro station, and BPTP Astaire Garden (Sector 70) to DLF Cyber Park (Shankar Chowk) via Golf Course Road. Buses will run on each route from 7 am till noon, and 3 pm to 8 pm daily. Pricing for the tickets begins at INR 7 per kilometer.

As a first-of-its-kind partnership between Uber and a public transport body, this will serve as a model to illustrate how technology can improve public transport services. The partnership promises to bring a convenient commute experience as it will ensure pre-booked seats in public transport buses, fewer stops which means faster commute and a safer ride as there will be no standing passengers in moving buses. Overall, a faster and more pleasant travel experience in the buses. The commuters only need  to show digital code confirmation on their Uber app to the driver as they board the bus. They will also benefit from round-the-clock safety support from Uber including having access to a 24X7 Safety Line.

Speaking at the flag off in Gurugram, Shri Sudhir Rajpal (IAS), Chairperson, GMCBL, and CEO, GMDA, said, “Today, Gurugram is home to a diverse population and the biggest domestic and international brands in the country. We are committed to improving public transport services and make commuting in Gurugram a joyful and seamless experience. Our partnership with Uber is a step in this direction, and will pave the way for using world-class technology to revolutionize bus services in the city. We are confident that this partnership will receive love from the citizens, and inspire other cities to attempt similar initiatives in the near future.”