Mangaluru city buses to accept UPI payments soon

Team Udayavani, Jun 16, 2024, 8:45 AM IST

Mangaluru: A system for purchasing bus tickets via UPI (Google Pay, PhonePe, etc.) will soon be implemented in city buses, said the President of the Dakshina Kannada Bus Owners Association (DKBOA), Azeez Parthipady on Saturday.

Addressing a press meet, Azeez said that The Cashless ‘Chalo’ card introduced three years ago by the DKBOA is now being upgraded to “DKBOA Student Card”. The student card will offer students a 60% discount on passes. Public passengers will also be offered a 10% discount on using the card. School and college students can avail of 40 and 50 trip passes with a 60% discount.

The passes are valid for travel between the student’s residence and their school or college, and students can obtain these cards for free. The association aims for 90% of the public to take advantage of this DKBOA card, he added.

Passes can be obtained from several locations, including Milagris Building, Citylight Building, Mandovi Motors, Sagar Tourist opposite Mandovi Motors, Sai Mobile near Surathkal Bus Stand, Anu Mobile near Thokkottu Bus Stand, and Hampanakatte, he explained.

In addition to the UPI ticketing system, a GPS control system will also be implemented to improve bus schedules. Mangaluru Smart City Ltd. is collaborating on this project and will provide support as needed, Azeez said.

Safety Measures Emphasized

Azeez Parthipady stressed the importance of passenger safety, particularly for students. “Drivers should prioritize the safety of passengers, especially students, and take special care during the rainy season. Do not stand on the footboard, issue tickets through the ticket machine, and accept DKBOA student cards. Wear a uniform and refrain from using loud horns or loud speakers. Stop buses inside the bus bay and be courteous to passengers.

“Instructions have already been given to bus drivers and administrators to not show indifference or neglect towards the students,” said Azeez Parthipady.

The press conference was also attended by DKBOA General Secretary Ramachandra Pilar, Vice President K. Ramachandra Nayak, and Former President Dilraj Alva.