Elderly and rural commuters who depend on public transportation are urging authorities to improve their travel experience by enhancing internet services, increasing the availability of top-up outlets, ensuring that redeem machines are operational, and offering cash payment options for those in need. Recent frustrations were voiced at the Suva bus stand, where many passengers expressed their discontent with the ongoing issues surrounding the bus card system, especially in light of the Fiji Bus Operators Association’s (FBOA) strict “No card – No ride” policy.
A random survey revealed that passengers are facing numerous challenges related to the eTransport card system, which compounds their difficulties when boarding buses. Long lines, restricted access, and technical glitches have diminished the reliability of bus services, adding to commuters’ stress during peak morning and afternoon travel times.
Richard Jagdish Lal, the president of FBOA, addressed these concerns by affirming that the e-Ticketing system has been in place for over eight years and highlighted the issuance of more than 520,000 new cards. He emphasized that commuters without cards must take responsibility for their travel planning, urging public transport users, particularly parents, to ensure their children have proper access to their eTransport cards. Drawing parallels to other cashless systems, Lal encouraged a cultural shift towards embracing these new methods.
Notably, Lal pointed out that only 859 complaints have been logged against over 701 million trip-taps, suggesting that while issues exist, the overwhelming majority of users have successfully adapted to the system. He reiterated that transitioning to a cashless society requires users to adjust and fulfill the necessary requirements for hassle-free travel.
By fostering communication and cooperation between transport authorities and commuters, there is the potential for effective solutions that may significantly improve public transport experiences for the most vulnerable populations, ensuring all citizens can navigate travel challenges with greater ease and accessibility. Improved infrastructure and services would not only benefit the elderly and rural commuters but resonate positively throughout the entire community, paving the way for a more inclusive public transportation system.