Track buses in real time with revamped ‘Pathadisha’ app
Times of India | 8 January 2025
Kolkata: The Pathadisha app, once lauded for revolutionising public transport navigation in Kolkata, is set for a grand revival by the state. This revamped version, named ‘Track-my-bus', aims to restore its functionality and popularity, allowing commuters to track buses in real-time, view estimated arrival times at their nearest stops, and plan their journeys accordingly. Initially launched six years ago, Pathadisha gained nationwide acclaim but struggled to maintain its momentum post-lockdown due to operational issues.
"With improved services, we're bringing the app back in a new form," transport minister Snehasis Chakraborty told TOI. The govt has already collaborated with Google and installed Vehicle Location Tracking Devices (VLTDs) in all govt buses. This will ensure seamless tracking of buses. The initial rollout will include all govt AC and non-AC buses, with private buses gradually added as their VLTD installations are completed.
The app's decline was primarily due to technical and procedural lapses. In older govt buses, tracking relied on GPS-enabled smartphones, many of which became non-functional. Meanwhile, newer buses equipped with tracking systems suffered technical failures. Compounding the issue, depot staff often failed to input bus details into the system, rendering the app ineffective.
Kolkata: The Pathadisha app, once lauded for revolutionising public transport navigation in Kolkata, is set for a grand revival by the state. This revamped version, named ‘Track-my-bus', aims to restore its functionality and popularity, allowing commuters to track buses in real-time, view estimated arrival times at their nearest stops, and plan their journeys accordingly. Initially launched six years ago, Pathadisha gained nationwide acclaim but struggled to maintain its momentum post-lockdown due to operational issues.
"With improved services, we're bringing the app back in a new form," transport minister Snehasis Chakraborty told TOI. The govt has already collaborated with Google and installed Vehicle Location Tracking Devices (VLTDs) in all govt buses. This will ensure seamless tracking of buses. The initial rollout will include all govt AC and non-AC buses, with private buses gradually added as their VLTD installations are completed.
The app's decline was primarily due to technical and procedural lapses. In older govt buses, tracking relied on GPS-enabled smartphones, many of which became non-functional. Meanwhile, newer buses equipped with tracking systems suffered technical failures. Compounding the issue, depot staff often failed to input bus details into the system, rendering the app ineffective.