Bengaluru’s bus priority lane is set to return as part of the Rs 400 crore B-SMILE (Bengaluru Sustainable Mobility and Integrated Lifestyle Enhancement) project, spearheaded by the Greater Bengaluru Authority.

Initially implemented between Silk Board and KR Puram in 2019, the dedicated bus lane had improved commute times but was discontinued due to Metro construction and the pandemic. Now, it will be relaunched with upgraded infrastructure, digital monitoring, and community engagement. The B-SMILE initiative aims to create an inclusive, integrated transport network across the city’s IT corridor by combining buses, Metro, pedestrian zones, and cycling tracks.

The Outer Ring Road (ORR) will be redesigned to include three carriageways for mixed traffic, bi-directional cycle tracks, and wide footpaths with shelters and safe boarding areas. RK Mishra, Independent Director at B-SMILE, emphasised the project's focus on sustainable, peoplecentric mobility, while Technical Director BS Prahalad highlighted that all transport modes will be given equal priority.