In response to the growing demand for cashless payment options among passengers, the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has launched an initiative to integrate Unified Payments Interface (UPI) payments across its extensive bus network. This initiative aims to make daily commuting more convenient by reducing the dependency on cash transactions and addressing common issues related to exact change, which often lead to delays and misunderstandings between passengers and conductors.
To facilitate this transition to cashless ticketing, KSRTC has equipped over 10,000 of its buses with state-of-the-art Electronic Ticketing Machines (ETMs). These advanced ETMs support a wide range of payment methods, including UPI, debit, and credit card payments, creating a seamless and efficient payment experience for commuters. With KSRTC’s fleet of approximately 8,800 buses now armed with this technology, the ETMs are set to transform the ticketing experience by speeding up transactions and reducing cash handling onboard. Plans for further deployment are also in place, with more buses expected to be equipped following comprehensive training for conductors on the new system.
KSRTC Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy shared his thoughts on the system’s advantages, emphasizing how it will streamline fare collection. “This system directly addresses the recurring issue of passengers needing exact change. Now, both passengers and conductors can experience greater convenience and smoother transactions. Payments can be made through UPI as well as through debit and credit cards, which makes the entire process quicker and more reliable,” he said. In addition, the ETMs will soon support the National Common Mobility Card and KSRTC-issued bus passes, which will further enhance passenger convenience. This feature is set to roll out within the next month, allowing passengers to validate their passes directly through the machines.
KSRTC’s Managing Director, V. Anbu Kumar, provided further insight into the technological advancements involved in the initiative. “We are upgrading our ticketing system with the introduction of 10,245 Android-based smart ETMs, which feature modern touchscreens, wireless connectivity, and faster processing speeds. These devices replace the traditional ETMs that we have relied on for nearly two decades, marking a major step forward in KSRTC’s commitment to modernization,” he explained.
In line with its vision to adopt cutting-edge technology, KSRTC recently piloted a dynamic QR payment system, which enables passengers to pay directly via a QR code on the ETMs. After a successful test, KSRTC now plans to roll out this QR-based payment feature across all smart ETMs by the end of the month, enabling even faster and more flexible payment options. With this move, KSRTC has become the first transport corporation in Karnataka — and one of the few in India — to integrate digital payment solutions on such a wide scale.
This extensive initiative is being carried out in collaboration with EbixCash Ltd., which has been contracted to implement an Intelligent Transport Management System (ITMS) for KSRTC. Under this five-year contract, EbixCash Ltd. will design, install, maintain, and operate the ITMS, providing KSRTC with integrated digital payment solutions and a comprehensive cashless ticketing system. The system will not only enhance operational efficiency but also improve the overall passenger experience, paving the way for smarter urban mobility in Karnataka.
As part of KSRTC’s long-term vision, the corporation aims to deploy an additional 15,000 devices over the next five years. This expansion plan will be implemented alongside EbixCash Ltd.’s ITMS framework, bringing KSRTC closer to its goal of a fully automated fare collection system. With these efforts, KSRTC is setting a new standard in public transportation by embracing technology and prioritizing passenger convenience, safety, and satisfaction.