The Changing Face of Bus Travel
India's travel landscape is undergoing a notable transformation, with a growing number of young, working professionals choosing shared transport like buses over personal cars. According to the IntrCity SmartBus Intercity Mobility Survey 2026, which gathered
responses from over 13,300 people, this trend is driven by a desire for convenience and a stress-free journey. The survey found that nearly three-fourths of respondents were between 18 and 43 years old, and a majority were salaried professionals. This demographic is increasingly prioritising the overall travel experience, moving away from just the cost. Nearly half of those surveyed said their last five intercity trips were all made using shared transport such as buses or trains.
Safety: The Top Priority and Biggest Hurdle
When choosing how to travel, safety emerged as the single most important factor for passengers, cited by 43% of respondents. It ranked higher than affordability (42.5%) and even comfort and cleanliness (40.5%). However, this top priority is also the biggest barrier. The survey revealed that safety concerns are a significant deterrent for many, with 33% of respondents identifying it as a major hurdle preventing them from using bus services more often. This highlights a critical gap between passenger needs and the current state of services. In response to these concerns, some operators are beginning to introduce enhanced safety frameworks, including measures like AI-powered monitoring, dual-driver protocols on long routes, and better emergency response systems.
The Persistent Problem of Cleanliness
Alongside safety, cleanliness remains a major point of friction for travellers. While the 2026 survey grouped comfort and cleanliness together as a key consideration for 40.5% of passengers, other recent studies have been more direct. A separate survey from late 2024 showed that a staggering 89% of travellers considered cleanliness a paramount concern. A consistent issue highlighted is the availability and condition of washrooms. One report found that 77% of passengers now see in-bus washrooms as a fundamental need, not a luxury, especially on long-distance routes that can stretch over 250 km. The demand for hygiene is so strong that over 71% of travellers say they are willing to pay a higher fare for services that guarantee better safety, comfort, and reliability.
What Passengers Are Willing to Pay For
The modern Indian traveller is value-conscious, but that doesn't just mean looking for the lowest price. The survey data indicates a clear shift towards a willingness to pay a premium for a better experience. Nearly 70% of respondents said they would prefer a premium shared bus over a car, train, or even a flight for a 400-600 km journey if the fares were identical. The features driving this preference include improved onboard amenities, the ease of digital booking, and avoiding the stress of driving. Technology plays a huge role, with 82.4% of travellers calling it 'very important' to their experience. This shows a clear market demand for organised, tech-enabled bus services that deliver on their promises of a safe, clean, and comfortable journey.
