Communications Minister Ioane Naivalurua has come under fire from the Fiji Bus Operations Association (FBOA) for his claims regarding the e-ticketing network in Fiji. Naivalurua stated that the government has inherited a superseded e-ticketing system, which the manufacturers no longer support as of 2023. Addressing the public’s grievances about extended waiting times, limited top-up outlets, and card replacement difficulties, he pledged to improve the reliability and accessibility of the e-ticketing service. Plans include substantial upgrades featuring new technology, better access to top-up services, and measures to mitigate potential system failures.
FBOA consultant Mick Beddoes labeled Naivalurua’s comments as “unfortunate,” arguing they do not reflect the advancements made prior to his appointment. He suggested that the minister should consult with former Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica, who led the eTicketing Steering Committee until last month, to gain insights into the progress that had been previously achieved. Beddoes indicated that the committee, which included organizations like Vodafone Fiji and the Consumer Council, had been effectively resolving issues relating to the system’s inefficiencies.
Additionally, Beddoes pointed out a discrepancy between Naivalurua’s remarks and Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s assertions that the e-ticketing system is under improvement rather than being replaced. He highlighted the reliability of Fiji’s public transport system, asserting it remains one of the most efficient and affordable in the region, catering to the needs of hundreds of thousands of workers and students on a daily basis.
The FBOA showcased that, despite operators receiving as little as 17 cents per kilometer, they have successfully facilitated nearly 690 million e-ticketing trips since the system’s inception in 2017, with a record of fewer than two complaints each week. Beddoes asserted that characterizing the system as a failure is misguided.
Overall, the commitment from both government officials and Vodafone to enhance the e-ticketing framework amidst public dissatisfaction indicates a collective effort towards reform. Such collaborative initiatives promise a transformation in Fiji’s public transportation system, aiming to make it not only more dependable and user-friendly but also reflective of the community’s evolving needs. The dedication shown by all stakeholders is expected to address current challenges and greatly improve the commuting experience for Fijians.