The Consumer Council of Fiji has urged Vodafone Fiji and other key stakeholders to take swift action regarding the ongoing issues plaguing the e-ticketing system for public transport. Seema Shandil, the council’s CEO, highlighted how the system, originally implemented in 2017 to ease commuters’ travel experiences, has instead caused significant challenges for users.
Shandil noted that the elimination of disposable cards has left many without backup payment methods during outages, resulting in passengers being stranded as bus drivers refuse alternative payments when the system fails. Highlighting the disproportionate impact on elderly commuters and those in rural areas, she expressed concern over the failure to provide reliable solutions.
“Consumers are currently facing hardships with a system that was meant to facilitate their daily lives. When technology fails, it affects more than just convenience; it can disrupt people’s livelihoods,” Shandil stated. She called for a national review to assess the system’s effectiveness and fairness, urging Vodafone to communicate their efforts to rectify the situation clearly.
Despite these challenges, there is some optimism as discussions for improvements and an upcoming e-ticketing app are underway, which will allow commuters to manage their transactions and balances more conveniently. The Fijian government has also indicated plans to enhance the system, showing a commitment to a more inclusive and customer-centric transport framework.
With these efforts, stakeholders can work together to address existing challenges, ultimately paving the way for a more efficient and user-friendly public transport system that can positively influence the lives of all Fijians.
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