Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) is set to implement digital payment options for booking tickets within the next two months, allowing passengers to travel without the need for cash or loose change. The tickets can be purchased using various online payment systems like Google Pay, Paytm, credit cards, and debit cards.

Meanwhile, the ticket machines with live ticketing capabilities have already been introduced at 40 depots across Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Kottayam, Pathanamthitta, and Alappuzha districts. The entire KSRTC fleet is expected to be equipped with these machines within the planned timeframe. 

A company named 'Chalo' is responsible for supplying the ticket machines and providing technical support for online and digital payment gateways, servers, internet facilities, computers, GPS systems for buses, and control room infrastructure. A rental fee of 16.16 paise per ticket, inclusive of tax, will be paid by KSRTC to the company.

It is estimated that an annual fee of ₹10.95 crore will be incurred by KSRTC. While purchasing ticket machines outright could be more economical, the lease agreement is considered cost-effective due to the inclusion of the online system and technical support. The company was selected through a global tender process conducted in partnership with K-Rail.

The new machines will also be compatible with the National Common Mobility Cards (NCMC) introduced by the central government. Ticket information will be instantly updated to the centralised online system. In non-reserved buses, it will be possible to monitor seat availability and ticket distribution from various locations via the control room.

The system will also help identify high-traffic and low-traffic routes, allowing for better bus allocation. Through the "Chalo" mobile app, passengers will be able to access real-time travel information for each bus. Those waiting at bus stops can receive updates on the arrival time of the next bus on their route directly to their mobile phones. Additionally, passengers will be able to purchase tickets before boarding.