Amidst the slew of announcements regarding Google Maps, the company has also revealed that it is partnering with ONDC and Namma Yatri. Googlesaid that a large majority of people in India depend on public transport for their daily mobility needs. “Over the years, Google has partnered with numerous local authorities towards this goal, enabling millions of users to find information about various modes of public transport including metros, trains, and buses in over 20 Indian cities,” said Miriam Daniel, vice president and general manager, Google Maps.

Google goes ‘local’ in Mumbai

Google also revealed that its Where is My Train app would connect Mumbai and Kolkata local trains to the Maps app.is also bringing Mumbai and Kolkata Local. Users of the app will be to access dynamic information like train location, real-time status, platform changes and more.
Google said that more than 80 million people use the Where Is My Train app every monthto navigate intercity train journeys, enabling people to access dynamic information like schedule changes, delays, and platform numbers, which might not be easily accessible otherwise. “Starting today, the Where Is My Train app will now cover Mumbai and Kolkata Local Trains, showing real-time train location, schematic maps, platform numbers and more, with additional cities coming soon.”

What the partnerships bring

Google said that the two partnerships will focus on bringing metro schedules and bookings to users, and will launch by mid next year with Kochi metro on Google Maps powered by Namma Yatri, followed by other metros as they join the ONDC network.
T Koshy, MD and CEO at ONDC: “We are excited to collaborate with Google Maps towards revolutionising public transport experiences in India. With this collaboration, we aim to not only enhance user convenience but also provide a platform for the growth of mobility startups nationwide.”