BMTC ticketing machines to generate dynamic QR codes for bus fares to prevent pilferage

BENGALURU: The Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) is the preferred mode of daily commute for lakhs of people. Following the introduction of electronic ticketing machines (ETM), UPI fraud by many conductors in BMTC had come to light. Now, to put a stop to this malpractice, the BMTC is introducing new ETMs with dynamic QR codes. These new ETMs will be available in all buses by the end of next month.

Earlier, cases had surfaced where BMTC conductors gave their personal UPI scanners and cheated the corporation of ticket money. To curb such unauthorised ticket money transfers, the BMTC is moving to install about 11,000 advanced smart Electronic Ticketing Machines. For this, a tender worth around Rs 40 crore has been awarded to a Mumbai-based company called Chalo.

Currently, the company is conducting a pilot trial of 400 ETMs on ten routes, including Yeshwanthpur depot. This trial phase is nearing completion, and after May 30, these ETMs will be available in more than 6,000 BMTC buses.

After these ETMs are introduced, all QR codes pasted in buses will be removed. A ticket will be generated only when the dynamic QR code generated in the Android-enabled ETM is scanned.This will put an end to the malpractices by passengers and conductors. Additionally, in the coming days, the option to pay using debit cards, credit cards, and NCMC will be provided. This will enable faster ticket issuance.

Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy told Public TV, “A pilot project is going on now and by May 30, we plan to cover all the depots in Bengaluru. Overall, the trial of these new ETMs is currently successful, and BMTC plans to fix minor flaws and roll out the new smart ETMs in all buses by the end of next month.