The Telangana State Road Transport Corporation has denied accusations about the automatic fare collection system (AFCS) implementation. They clarified that the system is being put in place with board approval and based on a high-level committee’s recommendations. The AFCS was introduced in 2022 to improve passenger services with digital payment options like UPI, debit/credit cards, smart cards, mobile tickets, and bus passes. This system offers real-time information to enhance service based on passenger needs.
Initially, a tender notice for digital ticketing was issued on November 2, 2022. Although six companies participated, the tender was cancelled on July 3, 2023, due to the need for comprehensive service management and the availability of Central government funds. Another tender was issued on January 11, 2024, but it was cancelled on February 29, 2024, as no company could meet all the required services.
To expedite the AFCS implementation, a high-level committee was formed. After thorough evaluation, ‘Chalo Mobility’ was chosen for their expertise in QR-based mobile-ticketing, smart cards, and digital services. Chalo Mobility has experience in providing similar services in various states and cities, which contributed to their selection.
Chalo Mobility has started the process to implement AFCS through a pilot project in select depots, with full operation expected within three months. Payments to the service provider will be based on the number of tickets issued, not the number of passengers.
The RTC highlighted the transparency of its tender process, including pre-bid meetings and online availability of tender documents. They dismissed claims of secret tenders as false. The RTC ensured that AFCS implementation follows all rules and regulations, with decisions made solely by the board without government or Transport ministry involvement.
Over the past two and a half years, the RTC has introduced multiple programs to enhance public transport, focusing on passenger safety and comfort. The corporation credited its success to transparent decision-making and condemned misinformation intended to damage its reputation.
