BMTC plans QR code advertisements on passenger seatbacks in Bengaluru

The Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) is planning to introduce QR code-based advertisements on the backs of passenger seats across its bus fleet in Bengaluru. The initiative is aimed at boosting the corporation's non-fare revenue through interactive digital advertising.

The proposed QR code displays will measure 10 cm by 10 cm and will be positioned on the rear side of passenger seats. According to BMTC officials, commuters will be able to scan the codes using their smartphones without being required to download any separate application.

To facilitate this, the selected advertising agency must develop a Progressive Web App (PWA) or a browser-based platform that is fully compatible with both Android and iOS devices. Through this system, the BMTC will gain access to a live analytics dashboard. This dashboard will show real-time data, including scan counts, user engagement levels, click-through rates, and anonymised geo-tagged data.

In accordance with state government norms, the BMTC has stipulated that all advertisements must receive prior approval from the corporation and must be available in Kannada. The corporation will also reserve up to 10% of the display space or time for public service messages and emergency announcements. Advertisements that contain political, religious, obscene, offensive, or defamatory content will not be permitted on the platform.

To safeguard passenger data and ensure cybersecurity, the BMTC has mandated strict compliance with the Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023. The selected agency must adhere to high cybersecurity standards, ensuring that the QR codes do not redirect passengers to malicious websites or unauthorised payment platforms.

This digital advertising push comes as the BMTC actively seeks to strengthen its non-fare revenue streams. The financial drive follows the introduction of the Karnataka state government’s Shakti Scheme, which provides free bus travel for women across state-run transport corporations. While the scheme has significantly increased overall ridership, transport undertakings have been exploring alternative revenue sources beyond passenger fares to improve their long-term financial sustainability.