Mon May 12 03:44:29 UTC 2025: ## Mangaluru’s KSRTC Embraces UPI Payments, While Private Buses Lag

**Mangaluru, Karnataka, May 12, 2025** – While the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) in Mangaluru has successfully implemented UPI-based payments on all 533 routes under its division, including 53 city routes, private bus operators are lagging behind despite possessing the necessary electronic ticketing machines (ETMs) for three years.

The KSRTC has been using handheld ETMs for six months, allowing passengers to pay fares via UPI apps. The system generates a dynamic QR code for each journey, streamlining the process and eliminating the need for cash transactions. Divisional Controller Rajesh Shetty highlighted the positive impact on conductors, stating the system alleviates the burden of handling cash.

However, private bus operators, equipped with ETMs provided by the ‘Chalo’ technology company three years ago, are underutilizing the system. Of the 490 buses equipped, only about 60 are currently using ETMs for UPI payments. While some routes, such as Route No. 27, show some adoption, many conductors still prefer cash or mobile payments, according to local residents.

Authorities are taking note. The Mangaluru Regional Transport Officer, Shridhar Mallad, reported that random checks have begun to enforce ticket issuance, regardless of payment method. The Dakshina Kannada Bus Owners’ Association president, Aziz Parthippady, expressed commitment to encouraging wider adoption of UPI payments among private bus operators. The discrepancy highlights the challenges in transitioning to cashless systems, even when the infrastructure is in place.

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