Consumers in Fiji are expressing significant dissatisfaction with Vodafone Fiji’s recent rollout of its e-Transport card system. Complaints have flooded social media as daily commuters and parents, particularly those relying on public transportation for school, face challenges related to app compatibility, issues with topping up cards, and untrained bus drivers.
This confusion has underscored the challenges many users are experiencing while adapting from the old card system to the new one. Claudette Rose, a frustrated user, voiced her disappointment, alleging that Vodafone has failed to meet its promised service standards. Her experience included difficulties with the balance transfer between old and new cards, contrary to the assurances made in Vodafone Fiji’s FAQs.
Ms. Rose further pointed out that the necessity of using two separate apps—one for the new card and another for topping up—adds to the inconvenience. “Why didn’t they use their heads and just have everything in M-PAiSA?” she questioned, highlighting the inefficiency of requiring users to visit stores or Vodafone outlets for redemption after using the M-PAiSA app for top-ups.
The situation was compounded by reports from other users, including parent Susana Vatukela, who voiced concerns about local top-up agents still unable to upgrade their systems to accommodate the new cards. There are rising worries particularly among parents whose children have faced confusion and further delays trying to redeem fares due to untrained bus drivers unfamiliar with the new system.
In light of these frustrations, there are urgent calls for action to address glitches in the new e-Transport rollout. Consumers are urging Vodafone and relevant authorities to fix these issues promptly to prevent further disruption to public transport users.
On a promising note, similar challenges faced in the past have catalyzed improvements in Fiji’s e-transport system. For instance, following a recent outage, Vodafone Fiji introduced offline top-up capabilities, allowing customers to top up without needing an internet connection. Such improvements reflect a commitment to enhancing customer service, ensuring that system adjustments can lead to a more efficient public transport experience in the future.
As highlighted by the Consumer Council of Fiji, while addressing systemic flaws, there is optimism for the future of public transportation. Ongoing efforts to streamline the e-ticketing system suggest that a more user-friendly and accessible transport solution is on the horizon. With collaboration amongst stakeholders, improvements in the transport infrastructure can create a hopeful and more reliable commuting environment for all Fijians.
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