KSRTC implements cashless payment system across buses, first in Karnataka

The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has rolled out a cashless payment system on its buses, making it the first transport corporation in the state to implement UPI-based digital payments. Starting in Bengaluru and Mysuru last week, the new initiative will be expanded statewide within a week.

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KSRTC has introduced 10,245 Smart Electronic Ticketing Machines (ETMs) across 8,800 buses. These devices, powered by Android 13, support various UPI payment apps like PhonePe and Google Pay, enabling passengers to pay digitally. Anbu Kumar, Managing Director of KSRTC, reportedly explained that while ETMs were introduced a decade ago, they lacked UPI and card payment options. The new system also promises to include ATM card facilities soon.

This step makes KSRTC one of the few transport corporations in India to implement such a solution, bringing the state closer to a fully automated fare collection system. The ETMs will soon validate National Common Mobility Cards and KSRTC-issued bus passes, with the features expected to be activated within a month.

The initiative is part of a collaboration with EbixCash Ltd., which is tasked with developing an Intelligent Transport Management System (ITMS) for KSRTC. This partnership, lasting five years, aims to further streamline cashless ticketing and digital payments. Over the next five years, KSRTC plans to deploy an additional 15,000 devices, ensuring seamless travel across the state.