Rural and elderly commuters who depend on public transport are calling on authorities to ease their travel woes by providing better internet services, more top-up outlets, operational redeem machines, and a cash option for disadvantaged travellers.
A random survey at the Suva bus stand yesterday found many venting, frustrated that ongoing bus card issues remain.
As the Fiji Bus Operators Association enforced a “No card – No ride policy”, the commuters highlighted a range of difficulties linked to the use of the eTransport card system, as well as operational issues experienced while boarding buses.
Several said long queues, access limitations, and system-related problems were affecting the reliability of bus services and adding pressure to already busy mornings and afternoons.
FBOA president Richard Jagdish Lal said the decision followed years of discussion.
“The e-Ticketing system for our public transport has been operational now for more than eight years,” he said.
“With over 520,000 new cards issued, those still without cards must take responsibility.
“Public transport users and parents must ensure cards are obtained and kept topped up, just like any other cashless service.
“With respect, what the FBOA is doing is consistent with the shift by the entire country to a ‘cashless society,’”
He noted only 859 complaints were recorded out of more than 701 million trip-taps and stressed that passengers, including schoolchildren, must now take personal responsibility to avoid disruption.
“The only thing our adult public transport users and the parents of our schoolchildren have to do is get their e-Ticketing cards and ensure they are always topped up,” he said.
