Fiji is set to upgrade its national e-Transport system with the launch of a new QR Pay feature on October 20. This initiative is designed to simplify public transport payments, offering commuters a more efficient and user-friendly option. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Cooperatives, MSMEs, and Communications, Manoa Kamikamica, shared details about this innovative feature, which will be available on Android and iOS devices.
Kamikamica highlighted that the QR Pay functionality is intended to provide Fijians with more flexibility and convenience in managing their travel payments. He noted, “The QR Pay feature will give Fijians more flexibility and convenience in how they pay for their travel.” Currently, the e-Transport platform boasts impressive figures, with over 128,000 users accessing the service daily and around 320,000 active users each month, in addition to 492,000 registered cards.
The introduction of this payment option signifies an important milestone in Fiji’s ongoing digital transformation journey. Kamikamica underscored the significance of digital innovation in facilitating citizens’ daily activities and creating a more inclusive environment. This new development follows the previous announcement of a real-time tracking application for bus card payments, which is aimed at enhancing transparency and building user trust.
In light of past challenges related to the electronic ticketing rollout and connectivity issues within the public transport system, the government is actively engaging in measures to improve user experiences. Collaborations with various telecommunications companies and continued infrastructure enhancements are seen as vital moves in overcoming these hurdles.
As the QR Pay system rolls out, it embodies the government’s dedication to modernizing Fiji’s public transportation. This development marks a promising shift toward more sustainable and inclusive travel options. The optimism surrounding these technological advancements suggests that Fiji is progressing towards a more efficient and accessible transportation network, ultimately improving the daily lives of its residents throughout the archipelago.