Prawaas 4.0, one of India’s most influential multimodal transport events, concluded recently with resounding success at the Bengaluru International Exhibition Centre (BIEC). Marking a significant shift from previous editions held in Hyderabad, this year’s symposium brought together a diverse array of industry stakeholders under one roof, signaling a renewed focus on safe, smart, and sustainable passenger mobility. The event, organized by the Bus & Car Operators Confederation of India (BOCI) and backed by multiple government ministries, showcased cutting-edge innovations in the public transportation sector and fostered meaningful dialogue on the future of people movers.
Bringing Together the Industry’s Powerhouses
Prawaas 4.0 saw a robust representation of key players from across the transportation spectrum, including private bus fleet operators, State Transport Undertakings (STUs), Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), bus-body builders, technology companies, and startups. Over 200 exhibitors displayed their latest products and services, and more than 10,000 visitors from across India attended the event. For the first time, Bengaluru played host to this event, reinforcing the city’s growing importance as a hub for the transport and mobility sector.
The event was inaugurated by Shri D.K. Shivakumar, Hon’ble Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka, with Shri Prasanna Patwardhan, President of BOCI, delivering the keynote address. Patwardhan emphasized the critical role of innovation in transforming India’s transportation landscape. He highlighted BOCI’s commitment to driving sustainable practices and improving passenger mobility across the country. A video message from Shri Nitin Gadkari, Hon’ble Minister of Road Transport & Highways, further underscored the importance of evolving India’s transport infrastructure to meet future demands.
Key Themes and Discussions
The central theme of Prawaas 4.0 was ‘Safe, Smart, and Sustainable Passenger Mobility,’ a focus reflected in the various discussions and exhibitions held over the three-day event. Industry leaders and experts shared insights on crucial issues such as the role of multimodal transportation, the need for public-private partnerships (PPP) in infrastructure development, and the future of electric vehicles (EVs) in India. With over 1500 representatives from the industry in attendance, the event proved to be an ideal platform for exploring innovative solutions to the pressing challenges facing India’s transport sector.
A major talking point was the scale of India’s private bus fleet. Private operators currently own 17 lakh buses, accounting for 92% of the total fleet in India. In contrast, STUs operate just 1.3 lakh buses. This disproportionate distribution underscores the vital role private operators play in meeting the country’s transportation needs, particularly in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities. However, despite their scale, private operators continue to face significant challenges, from navigating the high total cost of ownership (TCO) to adapting to the reduced availability of FAME subsidies for electric buses.
Exhibition Highlights and Innovations
The exhibition at Prawaas 4.0 featured over 200 participants, including some of the biggest names in the automotive and public transport sectors. Tata Motors, Volvo Eicher, Ashok Leyland, and JBM Group were among the key exhibitors showcasing their latest vehicles and technology. The exhibition also spotlighted advancements in e-ticketing solutions, connectivity in rural areas, and value-added services from companies like RedBus, AbhiBus, and Chalo.
In addition to showcasing vehicles and solutions, the event also introduced new concepts aimed at improving the overall passenger experience. Operators like Paytm Bus, Nippon Paint, and Eka Mobility demonstrated innovative approaches to making passenger travel safer, more comfortable, and more accessible.
Shaping the Future of Indian Transportation
Another key feature of Prawaas 4.0 was the deep dive into operational issues affecting the transportation sector, including traffic bottlenecks in urban metros and the need for integrated solutions. As India continues to urbanize rapidly, stakeholders are grappling with how best to decongest crowded urban areas while also meeting the increasing demand for efficient, long-distance transportation options.
The symposium also paid special attention to financing models and credit availability, with leasing models like the Gross Cost Contract (GCC) gaining traction among fleet operators. This shift is expected to make modern buses more accessible to operators, particularly in Tier 2 and Tier 3 cities where the need for high-quality transportation is growing exponentially.
A Focus on the Next Generation
In an effort to involve younger generations in shaping the future of mobility, Prawaas 4.0 introduced the “BOCI Yuwa” initiative. This program aimed to engage the youth in the transport sector, encouraging them to take leadership roles and contribute to a greener, more sustainable future for India’s transportation system.
Looking Forward
Prawaas 4.0 was not just a showcase of technological advancements and discussions—it was a call to action. The event brought together the country’s foremost experts, policymakers, and industry leaders to chart a course toward a more efficient, sustainable, and inclusive transportation ecosystem. With the growing importance of public transportation in addressing both environmental and socio-economic challenges, the key takeaways from Prawaas 4.0 are expected to shape the future of India’s mobility landscape for years to come.
As the dust settles on this year’s edition, the industry looks forward to turning the insights and innovations shared at Prawaas 4.0 into real-world solutions that will drive India’s transportation sector into a new era of growth and sustainability.
