The Fiji Times Focus
IT has been a topic of discussion in recent weeks among the people. Well, why not when it concerns money. The discussions have focused on the e-ticketing system being implemented in buses. Some people have complained of how it operates and them losing out financially. Today, we give you some tips on what people should do when using the e-ticketing system.
THE world is changing technologically and so is Fiji.
With many card systems in place around the world, Fiji has also recently introduced the electronic-ticketing system.
This system is being implemented in buses around the country now and at a later stage may also be in taxis.
Under this system, people need a card and enough credit in it to ensure they are able to reach their destinations while travelling in buses.
However, while some have welcomed the new move, some have also raised their concerns on various issues regarding the e-ticketing system.
According to the Consumer Council of Fiji, a number of consumers who used the e-ticketing system raised their concerns recently on being overcharged.
"Consumers can avoid this by doing their part and checking first before tapping their card," said the council's chief executive officer, Premila Kumar.
"It will also save the hassle of getting the refund."
Mrs Kumar said consumers should collect their receipts, whether they pay cash or by using the card.
She said this was important because the receipt was evidence of travel and records what a consumer has paid.
On the other hand, she urged the Land Transport Authority to ensure that drivers were properly trained and familiar with the system.
"Effective enforcement from the authority for both drivers and passengers is necessary for successful implementation of e-ticketing," she said.
"If the machines are faulty and do not appear to be in proper working condition, the bus operators must provide an alternative bus to ensure passengers reach their respective destinations in a timely manner."
Mrs Kumar said the authorities should ensure that bus companies have proper machines in their buses to avoid unnecessary inconvenience to consumers.
What to do/lookout for [Source:Consumer Council Of Fiji]
* Check the e-ticketing machine before tapping your card.
* See that you are charged the correct fare and then only tap your card.
* The console machine's screen will display the fare a consumer is charged before they tap their cards.
* The bus driver will key in the stage fare requested by the passenger and this fare is displayed on the machine facing the passenger before he/she taps the card.
* If the console has a different fare on the screen, then the consumer must advice the driver to cancel and enter the correct stage fare.