Communications Minister Ioane Naivalurua is facing criticism from the Fiji Bus Operations Association (FBOA) after he stated that the government had inherited an outdated e-ticketing network, which is no longer supported by its manufacturers in 2023. Addressing the public’s frustrations about long queues, insufficient top-up outlets, and issues with card replacements, Naivalurua committed to enhancing the reliability and accessibility of the e-ticketing system. He outlined plans for significant upgrades, including the introduction of new technology, improved top-up access, and initiatives to prevent system failures.
FBOA consultant Mick Beddoes called Naivalurua’s remarks “unfortunate” and suggested that they do not accurately reflect the progress achieved before he took office. Beddoes recommended that the minister consult with former Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica, who led the eTicketing Steering Committee until his resignation last month. According to Beddoes, this committee, which involved stakeholders such as Vodafone Fiji and the Consumer Council, had been effectively addressing issues related to the system’s inefficiencies.
Furthermore, Beddoes noted that the minister’s statements contradicted Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s comments, which indicated that the e-ticketing system was being improved rather than replaced. He emphasized the dependability of Fiji’s public transport system, stating that it remains one of the most efficient and affordable in the region, serving hundreds of thousands of workers and students daily.
The FBOA highlighted that despite operators earning as little as 17 cents per kilometer, they have successfully managed nearly 690 million e-ticketing trips since the system’s implementation in 2017, with fewer than two complaints per week. Beddoes asserted that labeling the system as a failure is misguided.
The broader context suggests that both government officials and Vodafone are actively seeking improvements to the e-ticketing framework amidst public discontent. This ongoing dedication from all parties involved is paving the way for a potential transformation in Fiji’s public transportation system that is not only more reliable and customer-friendly but also reflective of the community’s needs. Collaborative efforts among the stakeholders promise to address the current challenges and enhance the overall commuting experience for Fijians.