Did you know that if you plan to come back by bus on the same day, you can buy a return ticket for just Rs20?
The other day, I was making a trip to Navi Mumbai, and my co-passenger informed me about this new facility. I am not a regular traveller and hardly ever use a pubic transport; therefore this was news to me. This is a good move and it will bring relief to bus conductors, who have tough time squeezing through the crowded buses delivering tickets to the passengers.
She also informed me about the card that has been jointly launched by railway authorities and Kaizen Automation Private Limited.
Christened as the "GO Mumbai Card" an electronic card was introduced to Mumbai consumers, in April, that integrated all modes of public transport and allowed a "cashless" travel for a commuter. It was supposed to revolutionise the ticketing system on Mumbai’s suburban railway network.
How many commuters know about this card, I am not sure, but there is still a long queue at the ticket office. Many people are hesitating to acquire this card because that the balance in the ‘Go Mumbai’ smart card reduces by Rs5 every month irrespective whether one uses it or not. Also, if the card is used on a BEST bus Rs5 will be deducted and again if the card is used on railways another Rs5 per month is deducted.”
And then there are few stations on the harbour line that still don’t have validating machines.
Commuters complain that there are many lacunas in the system but they have lots of patience and have learnt to live comfortably here, in Mumbai, against all odds. If the railway administration feels that people will get acquainted with the new technology over a period of time, then they will…….
Umage source: photobucket
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