Smooth travel for passengers
BENGALURU
In a move aimed at simplifying public transport and enhancing commuter convenience, the Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) is set to introduce a rechargeable prepaid card system for bus passengers in the city.
The proposed system, similar to metro smart cards, is designed to eliminate the everyday hassle of carrying exact change and reduce delays in ticketing during peak hours. Officials said the initiative will also help curb instances of fare-related fraud, including issues linked to QR-based payments.
Under the new system, passengers will be able to tap their prepaid card on the Electronic Ticketing Machine (ETM) carried by conductors. The fare for the journey will be automatically deducted, and a ticket will be generated instantly, ensuring a faster and smoother boarding process.
BMTC Chief Traffic Manager Rajesh confirmed that preparations are underway and, if all goes according to plan, the prepaid card facility is likely to be rolled out by June. Alongside this, BMTC is also considering the introduction of smart cards and additional travel card options to expand cashless payment modes.
The prepaid card is expected to be priced at Rs 50, with a minimum recharge of Rs 50 and a maximum balance limit of Rs 10,000. The card will have a validity of three years and can be auto-renewed upon continued usage.
Commuters will be able to purchase and recharge these cards at key Traffic and Transit Management Centres (TTMCs), including Majestic, Shanthinagar, Shivajinagar and Yeshwanthpur. Conductors will also facilitate distribution in phases to ensure wider accessibility.
To obtain the card, passengers will need to provide basic identification, such as Aadhaar, along with the initial recharge amount.
Transport officials believe the initiative will not only modernise BMTC’s ticketing system but also significantly improve efficiency, transparency and commuter experience in Bengaluru’s bus network, which caters to lakhs of passengers.
