Soon, paperless 'smart card' passes for BMTC travelers

BMTC is planning to do away with paper tickets as the long-time demand for smart cards is finally gaining pace.

BMTC director (Information Technology), Tanusree Deb Barma told Economic Times a 'closed loop smart card' with "variety of passes" will be rolled out in next three to six months. The new entrants include kilometre-based time-based and trip-based passes.

An option for online recharge will also be introduced along with the new changes. However, it is not clear that the demand of passengers for an integrated card which can be used in all public transport facilities in the city will be met.

A section of Bengalureans are sceptical about the project as the assurance for similar changes have been made by BMTC earlier also.