Here’s something that can come as a relief to those who use public transportation in Kolkata – there is now an app that will be able to provide you with comprehensive information about local buses.
Pathadisha, which was launched by the West Bengal government, provides the kind of information one can find with private players like Uber and Ola. For instance, people with the app will be able to access real-time information on the exact location of the buses as well as information on all the incoming and outgoing buses at a particular bus stop. People can also find out the expected time of arrival for a specific bus.
Additionally, commuters can also find out in advance the number of seats available in a bus and also how crowded it is.
Image for representation. Photo source: Wikimedia
The app also has an in-built accident management system. In case of emergencies, it can immediately send across an SOS to the police, fire stations, hospitals, etc. so help can be on its way.
Fare smart cards
The government, in addition to having launched the app, has also announced that the state is introducing the West Bengal Transport Card. It is a pre-paid electronic transport card that commuters can use in buses, trams and even ferries in the city. With this move, Kolkata becomes the first city in the country to introduce an all-in-one transport card. The only exception is the metro that hasn’t been included as the state points out it is run by the Centre.
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Currently, about 700 buses in the city will accept them but another 300 buses will be added to the roster in a few months. Thanks to this move, people will no longer have to worry about carrying the exact fare for their transport. All they would have to do is swipe and pay.
The app can be downloaded here
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