Transport Reform: Minister Bhullar Announces Digital E-Ticketing and Smart Cards for Punjab Buses

This technology is expected to enhance the reliability of state-run buses by allowing passengers to check seat availability and manage their journeys more efficiently. File Photo.

The Punjab government has officially approved a proposal to procure digital electronic ticketing machines for all state-run bus services. This marks a significant shift toward a cashless transport system.

Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar announced that this move will enable commuters to pay for their travel using various digital modes, including UPI, QR code-based payments, and card-enabled transactions, alongside traditional offline methods.

The minister said that the new machines are GPS-enabled, providing the department and passengers with live tracking of buses and real-time information regarding available services on different routes.

This technology is expected to enhance the reliability of state-run buses by allowing passengers to check seat availability and manage their journeys more efficiently.

Minister Bhullar clarified that the free bus travel scheme for women will continue without any interruption, and women passengers will now be issued smart cards to avail the facility seamlessly. Similarly, students will be provided with smart cards that can be recharged online through a mobile application.

From an administrative standpoint, the minister said that these digital machines would significantly strengthen the Transport Department’s functioning. He noted that real-time monitoring of ticket sales would improve revenue transparency, reduce manual intervention, and improve accountability within the state's transport infrastructure.

Source: Times of India