OnBoard Technology Enhances Accessibility for Visually Impaired Passengers in Mysuru
In an innovative move towards inclusivity, Mysuru has adopted the OnBoard technology, which significantly aids visually impaired passengers in identifying KSRTC buses. This initiative, part of the Dhwani Spandana project, was launched in July 2025 and has been gaining traction ever since.
What is OnBoard Technology?
OnBoard is a patented radio frequency-based system developed at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi. Its primary purpose is to assist visually impaired individuals in identifying and boarding buses with ease. Currently, this technology has been installed in approximately 200 KSRTC buses operating throughout Mysuru city.
Implementation and Training
The Swami Vivekananda Youth Movement (SVYM), a voluntary organization based in Mysuru, has played a crucial role in implementing this technology. They have trained over 470 visually impaired individuals to effectively use the OnBoard system. By December 2025, 307 of these individuals had successfully collected their user modules, according to Ramprasad, an Officer for Research and Documentation at SVYM.
How Does the Technology Work?
The OnBoard system consists of two main components: a user module and bus modules. The user module is a handheld device that communicates with the bus modules through radio frequency. When users press a query button on their device, it connects with the bus module and announces the route number through audio feedback, allowing visually impaired passengers to identify their bus with confidence.
Impact and Usage Patterns
Feedback from a survey conducted with 30 participants before and after using the OnBoard system revealed a significant impact. The system achieved a 24% reduction in dependence on fellow passengers and bus crew for route identification within just nine weeks. This improvement highlights the effectiveness of the technology in enhancing the independence of visually impaired users.
Demographics of Users
The most active users of the OnBoard system are primarily students and employees, with the majority falling within the 18–30 age group. Notably, female participants showed higher adoption rates, with 39% of trained women using the system compared to 30% of their male counterparts. This trend indicates a growing confidence among women in utilizing public transportation independently.
Popular Routes
The five most frequently used routes by OnBoard users include:
- Route 303
- Route 116
- Route 119
- Route 266
- Route 307
These routes serve areas near colleges and hostels, making them vital for students and young professionals in the city.
Feedback from Users
All users who provided feedback reported a noticeable reduction in their dependence on others for navigation. They expressed increased confidence in their ability to travel independently, indicating that OnBoard has significant potential to enhance accessibility for persons with visual impairments using bus services.
Training Process
The training program for using the OnBoard technology is comprehensive, consisting of a day-long course that combines theoretical and practical sessions. The theoretical instruction covers essential aspects such as:
- Device operation, including switches and battery management
- Language selection for audio feedback
The practical component involves using a private vehicle equipped with a bus module, allowing trainees to practice querying from a distance of approximately 30 meters before boarding a bus. This hands-on approach ensures that users feel comfortable and confident in utilizing the technology.
Funding and Collaboration
The OnBoard project is funded by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) and is implemented through a collaborative effort involving several organizations, including:
- KSRTC (Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation)
- Raised Lines Foundation
- Swami Vivekananda Youth Movement (SVYM)
- IIT Delhi
- KritiKal Solutions
- The visually impaired community
This collaborative approach has been instrumental in ensuring the successful deployment and operation of the OnBoard technology in Mysuru.
Conclusion
The introduction of OnBoard technology in Mysuru represents a significant step towards making public transportation more accessible for visually impaired individuals. By empowering users with the ability to identify bus routes independently, this initiative not only enhances their travel experience but also fosters greater confidence and independence.
Note: The information presented in this article is based on reports from The Hindu and other credible sources as of January 2026.
