Cherthala private buses go digital: No timing disputes, fare cuts and lucky draws

Cherthala: A success story from Cherthala is setting an example for the crisis-ridden private bus sector. The Cherthala Taluk Private Bus Operators Association is implementing innovative measures to bring passengers back to the buses. To achieve this, all services have been digitised in collaboration with a startup company.

Passengers are being attracted by ensuring digital transactions and safe travel, in addition to discounts on ticket fares. For this, software from a startup company named ‘Explore’ is being used. Tickets for regular commuters are issued via online cards, which can be recharged quickly. The card system has also been implemented to make student travel dispute-free.

Through a special app, passengers can check the arrival time of the next bus on each route and the passenger count. Since the association office-bearers can monitor the schedule of all buses, disputes have been avoided. This system has been implemented in about 70 buses in Cherthala and will soon be extended to other buses as well.

Advertisements for businesses will also be featured on the back of the bus tickets. As advertisements are expanded to the buses as well, there will be a reduction in ticket fares. It is expected that once the project is fully implemented, fares can be reduced by 15 to 20 per cent.

There are also lucky draw prize schemes for passengers based on ticket numbers. Through this, some passengers have received up to Rs 25,000.

Association president Bipin Chandralal, secretary Benny Antony, and state committee member S. Shajimon stated that the project is successful even on rural routes. Office-bearers report that services have become profitable on many routes.