Fiji’s public transport sector has made significant strides in its transition to an electronic ticketing (e-ticketing) system, a journey that started seven years ago when the concept was introduced as part of the 2009 Fiji Bus Industry Review. This initiative aimed to tackle considerable losses in revenue due to pilferage by moving to a cashless system, which is now fully operational.
The implementation process began in earnest in 2013 when the Fiji Bus Operators Association attempted to adopt an e-ticketing system. After overcoming numerous challenges, the government took charge of the project, and by July 2017, mainland buses officially shifted to cashless transactions. By the end of that same year, over 660,000 users had registered for the new system, reflecting a strong preference among Fijians for bus travel.
To facilitate this transition, a variety of prepaid card options were made available, catering to different demographic segments such as the elderly and students, who enjoy discounted fares. The system employs a tap-on mechanism where passengers notify drivers of their destination before tapping their cards on machines installed in the buses. This process not only generates a receipt for the commuters but also enhances operational efficiency within Fiji’s public transport framework.
However, the rollout of this e-ticketing system was not without its challenges. There were concerns about the feasibility for various user groups, particularly the elderly and school children, along with logistical issues regarding the card top-up locations. Initial implementation also faced technical difficulties, such as machine malfunctions and inadequate top-up facilities, particularly in rural and remote areas.
Moving forward, Vodafone Fiji plans to launch a dedicated e-ticketing app to address user frustrations, making the management of their cards more convenient. This user-friendly approach reflects ongoing efforts to modernize public transportation in Fiji and enhance the overall commuter experience. As part of this digital transformation, stakeholders are optimistic about improved connectivity, reduced manual errors, and a smoother transition to a fully integrated transport system, which may eventually include taxis and other forms of local transportation.
As Fiji continues to enhance its public transport infrastructure, there is hope that these improvements will lead to a more efficient, accessible, and environmentally friendly transport system, benefiting all citizens. The ongoing commitment to technology-driven solutions in transport indicates a positive trajectory for the future of commuting in Fiji.
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