Older commuters and passengers unfamiliar with digital technology say limitations in the eTransport card system continue to make daily bus travel difficult, particularly for those living in areas with limited access to top-up services.
Several commuters said the system did not adequately cater for people who preferred cash or were not confident using mobile-based payment platforms, leaving them vulnerable to disruptions during travel.
Vanueli Senibauvoro of Vunidawa, Naitasiri is in his 50s and said he was not accustomed to using the card system and found it challenging to rely solely on digital payments.
“I am not used to using the card and prefer cash,” he said.
“On one occasion, I topped up my phone, but the balance did not reflect on my card when I tried to redeem.”
Mr Senibauvoro said access to top-up facilities in his area were limited, adding further strain for passengers unfamiliar with the technology.
“In Vunidawa, there are only two shops that assist with card top-ups, and it is a hassle walking long distances just to top up,” he said.
From Cautata, Bau in Tailevu, Kaminieli Noke said he also faced difficulties understanding how to use digital redemption options.
“I do not know how to redeem the card using my phone,” he said.
Commuters have called for clearer instructions, improved support services, and greater flexibility within the system to ensure public transport remains accessible to all users, regardless of age or digital literacy.
Last week the Fiji Bus Operators Association had announced it would begin enforcing a strict ‘No Card – No Ride’ policy beginning yesterday, shutting the door on cash payments and requiring all passengers, including schoolchildren to board only with a topped-up eTicketing card.
The move was aimed at transitioning to a cashless bus system, the operators saying they have accommodated passengers long enough during the upgrade period.
