Busworld International and its Indian partner, Inter Ads Exhibitions Pvt Ltd, held the 7th edition of Busworld India from 10 to 12 November.

For the first time, the location was the BIEC in the southern city of Bengaluru (Bangalore). Everyone agreed that the facilities were excellent and that the standard of exhibits was very high.
In fact, 72 exhibitors came from nine countries and occupied more than 7,000sq m of exhibition space. There were more than 4,000 professional visitors, plus representatives of the media, during the three days of the exhibition. While the Indian market is dominated by two domestic manufacturers who are tied to exhibitions organised by their national trade association, it was significant that Daimler Buses and Volvo Buses attended Busworld India for the first time. With their long experience of Busworld events in Europe, they recognise the benefits of attending fairs that are exclusively focussed on the bus and coach industry.

In parallel, Busworld Academy, IRU and ASRTU, organised a series of seminars with the theme “Bus and Coach – A Smart Transportation System for India”. This covered several topics including the challenges faced by the Indian bus industry, how technology can improve services and best international practices. 

Didier Ramoudt, President of Busworld International, said: “India has a huge requirement for replacement of buses and therefore it is imperative for creating space for sustainable transport.”

His advice was endorsed by Oleg Kamberski, Head of Passenger Transport at IRU, who said: “Countries still do not make buses and coaches their top priority. Policy makers must look at it urgently.”

Their opinions were endorsed by Rajender Kumar Kataria, Managing Director of the local Karnataka State Road Transport Commission, who said: “The image of public transport needs a drastic change. We have been failing to bring about public transport for all.”

Busworld International and Inter Ads Exhibitions Pvt Ltd were delighted with the move to Bangalore. Busworld India has progressively moved south from New Delhi to Mumbai and onward to Bangalore this year. Bangalore is one of the most progressive cities in India and a centre for high-tech industries. The BIEC offered more exhibition space. That was taken up by a greater number of vehicle manufacturers, plus suppliers of components and services. There was a strong emphasis on safety, driver and passenger comfort, and higher quality components.

A high level of satisfaction was achieved among all who participated and that will help to ensure that Busworld India becomes an even better event on the international Busworld calendar.