Google Maps now gives info on buses and long-distance trains in India

Google has announced that it's bringing much-needed features to its Google Maps app for its Indian users. They can get information in real-time about bus travel times from live traffic in ten of the largest cities in the country as well as live train status for the Indian Railways trains. Maps also adds mixed-mode commute routes that combine auto-rickshaws and public transport.

Thanks to Google's live traffic data and the public bus schedules, Google Maps can now calculate delays and provide accurate travel times in real-time. Bangalore, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Pune, Lucknow, Chennai, Mysore, Coimbatore, and Surat are the first cities to get it. In fact, they are the first cities to adopt the feature in the world.

The same goes for trains. You can get up to date information regarding delays, travel times, etc. By searching for your location and your destination, Google Maps will help you get around the country using India's railways. The feature was developed with the help of Where is My train app, which was acquired by the search giant last year.

The mixed-mode directions results now take into account auto-rickshaws - a popular type of transport in India. When it's considered as a good option, Google Maps will suggest taking a rickshaw during your trip when using public transport navigation. However, this feature is only launched in Delhi and Bangalore initially and will eventually spread to more cities.

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