New Delhi, November 18, 2024: IntrCity SmartBus, India’s leading intercity mobility platform, has revealed a significant shift in passenger expectations, with a recent survey of 10,000 travelers underscoring the demand for in-bus washrooms and enhanced travel amenities.
The findings reveal 77% of bus travelers now view in-bus washroom facilities as fundamental to their journey comfort-a clear signal that basic amenities are no longer optional in modern bus travel. It’s a sentiment strongly supported by travel patterns showing that 45% of passengers undertake long-distance intercity journeys. This necessity becomes even more apparent as 50% of travelers report the need to use washroom facilities at least once or twice during their journey.
The survey findings underscore a growing preference for comfort over cost, with 42% of respondents willing to pay a premium for buses equipped with washroom facilities. This strong sentiment highlights the market demand for enhanced travel experiences, where convenience and comfort are top priorities. Additionally, 54% of passengers expressed a preference for a mix of scheduled rest stops and onboard facilities, pointing to a need for flexible, passenger-centered travel options.
Manish Rathi, Co-founder & CEO of IntrCity SmartBus, “At IntrCity SmartBus, our commitment to redefining long-distance bus travel extends beyond simply adding amenities—it’s about setting new standards that prioritize passenger comfort and convenience. Our recent survey findings validate our focus on enhancing the travel experience by making each journey as comfortable as possible. With in-bus washrooms across our fleet, we’re not just upgrading amenities; we’re addressing a fundamental need, particularly for women, families, and seniors. This facility allows passengers to travel with greater ease and peace of mind. Through this approach, we’re establishing a new benchmark in road travel, aligned with the evolving expectations of today’s passengers. “
While the demand for comfort continues to rise, the survey also highlighted critical areas requiring immediate attention from service providers. Cleanliness emerged as a paramount concern, with an overwhelming 89% of respondents emphasizing its importance. Additionally, 74% of passengers stressed the crucial need for reliable water availability in these facilities, underlining the basic yet essential requirements for a comfortable journey.
To promote hygiene and cleanliness on long bus journeys, IntrCity SmartBus, in partnership with Sirona, launched a campaign on November 17 and 18. During these dates, IntrCity SmartBus passengers will receive a complimentary hygiene kit featuring Sirona’s PeeBuddy (pack of 2) and toilet seat covers (pack of 2). The campaign aims to provide travelers with essential hygiene products for safer, cleaner, and more comfortable journeys. Sirona, an award-winning brand, is breaking taboos in the feminine hygiene industry by introducing unique products that address unsolved period, intimate, and toilet hygiene issues that women confront from puberty to menopause.
IntrCity SmartBus is redefining intercity travel, providing passengers with a hassle-free journey and the convenience of advanced luggage management technology. Additionally, the company leads in introducing applications such as the Operator Dashboard, Crew App, and IoT-based Fleet Analytics. These tools ensure smooth management of every journey aspect, including real-time tracking and accurate Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA) information for destinations.
Survey Methodology
IntrCity performed a nationwide online survey of 10,000 persons aged 18 to 60 years old who travel between India’s metros, tier-1, and tier-2 cities. The survey was conducted between 1st November to 13th November. IntrCity’s data insights team analysed and validated the survey’s results.