Uber has announced plans to launch a Bus Shuttle Service in Kolkata aimed at catering to the needs of office-goers. Set to roll out by March next year, the service will initially feature 60 air-conditioned buses following predefined routes, connecting business districts to residential areas. The ride-hailing giant has committed to investing $10 million in the state of West Bengal by 2025, generating approximately 50,000 livelihood opportunities over the next five years. Users can pre-book seats for Uber Shuttle up to a week in advance, utilizing the Uber app to track live locations, receive real-time estimated arrival times, and enjoy cashless payment options. The service will run daily from 6 am to 10 pm, providing a seamless and comfortable travel experience with round-the-clock safety support.
The initiative, formalized through an agreement with the State Transport Department at the Bengal Global Business Summit, represents a strategic partnership between Uber and the government. According to Shiva Shailendran, Director of Operations at Uber India & South Asia, this collaboration aims to integrate the convenience and reliability of Uber rides into the bus service, contributing to global sustainability goals by increasing vehicle occupancy, reducing traffic congestion, and lowering carbon emissions. Saumitra Mohan, the State Transport Secretary, emphasized West Bengal's commitment to enhancing public transport services and facilitating hassle-free commuting through diverse transportation options, marking a positive step forward in their partnership with Uber.