Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (EP)

Udupi, Oct 1: The concession in private bus fare between 25% to 35% that is being offered to daily bus commuters on Kundapur-Udupi-Mangalore route, will be extended to few more routes. The concession was allowed by Canara combined transport, an association of private bus owners.

Speaking at a news conference in Udupi, president of bus owners association, K Rajavarma Ballal, said that Canara combined transport has been giving concession on bus fares for the last three years. Though coupons were used initially for the purpose, the association has switched over to Radio Frequency Identification Device (RFID) card for the last one year.  Nearly 6,500 daily commuters are benefitted by the scheme.

In a scheme such as this, introduced first time in the country, the concession facility will be extended to daily commuters on Kundapur-Bhatkal, Kundapur-Kandloor-Siddapur, Kundapur-Kollur, Udupi-Barkur-Siddapur and Karkala-Mangalore routes from October 1, 2013.

Fixed charges will have to be paid for the cards that are valid for two years. Card holders will be entitled for one to and fro trip per day. The cards have to be recharged for at least fifteen days though they are valid for thirty days.

The passenger will be able to see the balance amount through RFID. The facility that is available in 250 buses, will be extended to another 100 buses from October, 2013. RFID cards can be obtained are recharged at Udupi, Koondapur, Mangalore, Karkal and Moodbidri.