The North News
Chandigarh, January 15
The Punjab government has approved the introduction of digital electronic ticketing machines across state-run bus services, in a move aimed at improving convenience, transparency and efficiency for passengers. The decision, cleared by the administration led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, will allow commuters to buy tickets using multiple payment options, including QR code-based payments, UPI, cards and offline modes. Officials say the system is designed to cut waiting times, reduce cash handling and streamline travel across both urban and rural routes.
The new machines will be GPS-enabled, providing real-time information on bus locations, nearby stops and services operating on different routes. Passengers will also be able to check seat availability, a feature the government says will make journeys more predictable and reliable.
Welfare measures currently in place will continue under the new system, the government said. Free bus travel for women will remain unchanged, with women passengers to be issued smart cards to access the benefit seamlessly. Students will also receive smart cards, which can be recharged online through a mobile application, making daily travel easier and more affordable.
The smart card system will be available to residents and tourists using Punjab government buses, with digital recharging intended to integrate public transport more closely with the state’s expanding digital infrastructure.
Transport Minister Laljit Singh Bhullar said the digital ticketing machines would strengthen the functioning of the transport department by enabling real-time monitoring of ticket sales and bus movement. He said this would improve revenue transparency, reduce manual intervention and support better planning and deployment of buses.
The government said the move reflects its broader push towards technology-driven, citizen-focused governance, with an emphasis on making public transport inclusive, efficient and easier to use.
