Navigating the chaotic landscapes of urban India, Tummoc emerges as a revolutionary solution to modern mobility challenges. In an exclusive interview with Machine Edge Global, Hiranmay Mallick, Co-founder and CEO of Tummoc, delves into the vision behind India’s first multi-modal public transport app. From addressing the inefficiencies of daily commuting to integrating seamless first and last-mile connectivity, Mallick shares how Tummoc leverages technology and data to redefine public transport.
What inspired you to start Tummoc, and how did the idea of a multi-modal public transport app come to fruition?
Tummoc was born from a personal frustration we faced while navigating daily life in Bengaluru. Public transport is available, but planning a seamless journey? That was a headache. We saw a real opportunity to make it easier, more reliable, and more appealing. The idea was simple: bring all modes of public transport—buses, metros, and even last-mile options—into one platform. This wasn’t just about convenience; it was about giving people an alternative to private vehicles, reducing traffic, and contributing to a more sustainable city. What started as a solution for Bengaluru has grown into a mission to change urban mobility across India, and eventually, the world.
The first and last-mile connectivity feature is a highlight of your app. How does this work, and how has it improved user experiences?
First and last-mile connectivity is that crucial piece of the puzzle when it comes to public transport. No one wants to be stuck figuring out how to get to or from a bus stop or metro station. With Tummoc, users can plan their entire trip from start to finish, including booking a bike, auto, or cab to cover those first and last miles. It’s all in one app. Integration with mobility players like Rapido and Quick Ride (and more to come) has been a game-changer—users don’t have to juggle between different platforms, and they know exactly how long their trip will take. We’ve seen more people switching from private vehicles to public transport because now, it just makes sense.
How does Tummoc use data-driven approaches to optimize public transport accessibility and connectivity?
Data is at the heart of everything we do. We analyze real-time traffic, user behavior, and transit schedules to suggest the best possible travel routes. But it’s not just about making individual trips smoother—we also share this data with transit authorities. It helps them fine-tune routes and schedules to better serve commuters. For instance, if a particular bus route consistently faces delays, we can flag that and suggest adjustments. Our predictive algorithms make sure users get accurate ETAs, so they aren’t left guessing. The result? A more efficient, reliable public transport system that works for everyone.
What role do you envision Tummoc playing in reducing congestion and pollution in urban India?
We see Tummoc as a catalyst for change in urban mobility. The key to reducing congestion and pollution is getting more people to use public transport instead of private cars. Our job is to make public transport not just an option, but the best option. By offering multi-modal routes and seamless connectivity, we’re helping commuters leave their cars at home. We also provide insights into the environmental impact of their travel choices, making it easier for users to see how they’re contributing to a cleaner, greener city. Every person who switches to public transport is one less car on the road, and that adds up quickly.
With the rise of electric vehicles and cycles, how do you see the future of first and last-mile connectivity evolving?
The future is definitely electric—and not just cars. We’re talking about e-scooters, rental bikes, and shared micro-mobility options that make that first and last mile quicker, greener, and more efficient. At Tummoc, we’re already exploring ways to integrate these options into our platform. Imagine finishing a metro ride and instantly booking an e-bike to cover the last mile to your office—all through the same app. As cities build more charging stations and bike-friendly infrastructure, these options will become even more accessible. It’s about giving people flexible, eco-friendly choices that fit into their daily lives, and we want to be right there leading the charge.