The Government of Sindh’s Transport Department has launched an Automated Fare Collection System for the People’s Bus Service.
The launch event, which took place at a local hotel in Karachi on Saturday, was led by Sindh Senior Minister and Provincial Minister for Information, Transport, and Mass Transit, Sharjeel Inam Memon, with Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah presiding over the inauguration.
In his speech at the event, Chief Minister Shah conveyed his contentment with the momentous occasion, remarking, “Today marks a significant milestone, and I am delighted to be a part of it. Our dedication to enhancing public convenience remains steadfast, and this move towards digitalization underscores our commitment to modernizing the transportation sector in the province.”
He commended the government’s dedication to fostering innovation across multiple sectors, highlighting the significant positive changes brought about by the Automated Fare Collection System in terms of transportation efficiency and convenience.
Underlining the government’s resolve to bolster public transport infrastructure, CM Shah affirmed, “The implementation of the AFC system represents a pivotal step forward in our initiatives. It will elevate the convenience and efficacy of transportation.” He urged the Minister of Transport to persist in enhancing public transport infrastructure, pledging unwavering support from the Government of Sindh in this pursuit.
In his remarks Sundh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon highlighted the government’s efforts to provide affordable and contemporary travel facilities, stating, “It was the vision of President Asif Ali Zardari and Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari that we have diligently pursued.” He highlighted the government’s decision to subsidise fares for the People’s Bus Service in the face of inflation, underscoring its dedication to public welfare.
Memon underscored the government’s commitment to offering affordable and modern travel amenities, remarking, “It was President Asif Ali Zardari and Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari’s vision that we have diligently followed.” He emphasized the government’s initiative to subsidize fares for the People’s Bus Service amid inflation, highlighting its unwavering dedication to public welfare.
Addressing infrastructure projects, Memon acknowledged hurdles but affirmed sustained advancement, stating, “Progress on the Red Line BRT, a key project of the Sindh government, faced delays during the caretaker government’s tenure. Nonetheless, the elected and favored PPP government has recommenced work on the Red Line BRT despite inflation.”
The initiation of the automation process was symbolized by Chief Minister Shah personally boarding the People’s Bus and utilizing a card to pay the fare. The event was attended by various officials, including Secretary Transport Asad Zamin, Secretary Information Nadeem ur Rehman Memon, and representatives from the banking and technology sectors.