KSRTC smart card popularity soars: 1,55,000 cards sold across Kerala

Pandalam: KSRTC's smart card scheme, launched to promote digital payments and simplify ticketing, has received an overwhelming response. Within three months of its launch, 155,000 cards have been sold, with the highest sales recorded in the Thiruvananthapuram district. Initially, KSRTC sourced the cards from K-Rail but later switched to e-card technology.

The first batch of 118,000 cards sold out within a week through various depots. Subsequently, 16,000 cards, received in three batches, were also sold out within days. The cards are distributed to depots from KSRTC’s IT office in Thiruvananthapuram and the chief store in Pappanamcode. Cards were also issued during fairs held over this period.

Where can the cards be used?

Swiping machines have been delivered to all depots. The only challenge KSRTC currently faces is meeting the growing demand for the cards. The travel card can be used on all types of KSRTC buses and is available through conductors, authorized agents, and at KSRTC depots. The minimum recharge amount is ₹50, with a maximum recharge limit of ₹3,000. The card costs ₹100.

What if the card stops working?

The card can be used by the owner’s family members or friends. In case of loss, the owner is solely responsible. If the card stops working, a new card can be obtained within five days by submitting an application with the name, address, and phone number at the nearest depot. The balance from the old card will be transferred to the new one.

KSRTC also offers special benefits on recharges: for a recharge of ₹1,000, an additional ₹40 is credited, and for a recharge of ₹2,000, an extra ₹100 is added. However, if the card is damaged and becomes inoperable, a replacement will not be provided. When boarding a bus, swiping the card on the conductor’s ticket machine automatically deducts the fare. The card balance can also be checked on the ticket machine.