Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (MS)
Mangaluru, Jun 16: In a press conference, Azeez Parthipadi, president of the Dakshina Kannada Bus Owners’ Association (DKBOA), announced that city buses will soon implement a facility to pay ticket fares through UPI (Google Pay, Paytm, etc.).
Azeez stated, “The association introduced the Chalo card three years ago as part of digitalization. This will now be converted into the DKBOA student card, allowing students to avail a 60% discount on passes. The public will receive a 10% discount. School and college students can travel with a 60% discount by purchasing 40 or 50 trip passes, which will cover their commute from home to their educational institution. Students can obtain the card for free. Our goal is to ensure that at least 90% of students benefit from the DKBOA card.”
“Passes can be availed from Milagres Building in Hampankatta, Citylight Building, Sagar Tourist in front of Mandovi Motors, Sai Mobile near Suratkal Bus Stand, and Anu Mobile near Thokkottu Bus Stand.”
“As part of the ongoing digitalization process, in addition to the UPI ticket system, GPS will be introduced to improve bus timings. Mangaluru Smart City Limited has also initiated a project in this regard, and we will respond appropriately as soon as they contact us.”
“Drivers and conductors have been instructed to prioritize passenger safety, especially for students. They are advised to be extra cautious during the monsoon, prohibit travel on the footboard, issue tickets only through machines, mandatorily accept the DKBOA student card, wear uniforms, avoid using blaring horns and tape recorders, park buses inside the bus bay parking area, behave courteously with passengers, and ensure that students are not neglected.”
Ramachandra Pilar, chief secretary, vice president K Ramachandra Nayak, and former president Dilraj Alva were also present.