Image Credit: KSRTC
A high-level delegation from Germany’s Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) visited the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) in Bengaluru on December 2, 2025, commending the state’s progress in inclusive mobility and public transport innovation. The delegation—joined by officials from the German Embassy and GIZ (German Corporation for International Cooperation)—reviewed accessibility initiatives designed to support visually impaired and senior commuters.
Focus on Inclusive Mobility Technologies
The visit centred on Dhwani Spandana–OnBoard, an assistive audio-navigation system that provides real-time route and stop announcements to visually impaired passengers. Developed by the Raised Lines Foundation and scaled with GIZ support under the Green Urban Mobility Innovation initiative, the system is already deployed across KSRTC and Mysuru city buses.
KSRTC Managing Director Akram Pasha briefed the delegation on the project’s development and demonstrated the national award it recently received. Officials were taken on a KSRTC bus to experience the device live in operation.
The German team, led by BMZ Director General Christine Toetzke, praised KSRTC’s leadership in piloting user-first transport technologies. “KSRTC’s commitment to accessible and inclusive mobility sets a strong example,” Toetzke said during the visit.
Delegation Commends Wider Accessibility Efforts
Earlier the same day, the delegation also reviewed accessibility measures at Bengaluru’s Majestic Metro Station. Officials noted that the station incorporates features that support senior citizens and persons with disabilities, including unhindered access pathways and clear passenger guidance systems.
They also appreciated the Namma Metro green corridor near Majestic. “The green corridor reflects a thoughtful approach to sustainable and commuter-friendly urban design,” an official observed.
Discussions on Renewable Energy and Infrastructure
In a meeting Karnataka Chief Secretary Shalini Rajneesh discussed with the BMZ delegation the state’s potential for renewable energy expansion. Rajneesh encouraged the visitors to meet the Karnataka Renewable Energy Development Corporation to explore opportunities in solar and wind power deployment.
The delegation is scheduled to take part in further discussions this week on major infrastructure projects, including Bengaluru’s proposed tunnel road network and Namma Metro Phase 3, signalling deeper Indo-German cooperation in urban mobility and sustainable infrastructure.
The visit, officials said, marks a strengthening of India–Germany collaboration on accessible public transport, green mobility solutions, and inclusive infrastructure planning.
