The Transport Department of the Government of Sindh has inaugurated an Automated Fare Collection System in the People's Bus Service.
The launch ceremony, held at a local hotel in Karachi on Saturday, was hosted by Sindh Senior Minister and Provincial Minister for Information, Transport, and Mass Transit, Sharjeel Inam Memon, with Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah officiating the inauguration.
During his address at the ceremony, Chief Minister Shah expressed his satisfaction with the historic occasion, stating, "Today, I feel very happy on this historic occasion. We are committed to our promise of public convenience, and we have moved the transport sector in the province towards digitalisation."
He lauded the government's efforts in prioritising innovation across various sectors, emphasising the transformative impact of the Automated Fare Collection System on transportation efficiency and convenience.
Highlighting the government's commitment to advancing public transport infrastructure, CM Shah affirmed, "The introduction of the AFC system marks a significant advancement in our efforts. It will enhance the convenience and efficiency of transportation." He urged the Minister of Transport to continue enhancing public transport infrastructure, assuring full support from the Government of Sindh in this endeavour.
Reflecting on the achievements of the People's Bus Service, the chief minister commended it as a successful project under the Sindh government's Public-Private Partnership model. He also underscored ongoing infrastructure developments, including the imminent completion of the Red Line and the initiation of work on the Yellow Line.
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Addressing concerns regarding development in Karachi, the chief minister acknowledged past challenges but vowed dedicated efforts towards the city's progress. He announced plans for the seamless integration of the entire People's Bus Service into the automated fare system within the upcoming month, reaffirming the government's commitment to serving the people under the leadership of PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari and President Asif Ali Zardari.
In his remarks, Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon reiterated the government's commitment to innovation in transportation, stating, "We are spearheading innovation in the transportation sector, and the launch of the Automated Fare Collection System in the People's Bus Service is a testament to this endeavour." He announced the initial implementation of the system on two routes, with plans for expansion in the near future.
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.
Regarding infrastructure projects, Memon acknowledged challenges but assured continued progress, stating, "Work on the Red Line BRT, a major project of the Sindh government, was halted during the caretaker government's tenure. However, the elected and popular government of the PPP has resumed work on the Red Line BRT despite inflation."
The inauguration of the automation process was symbolised by Chief Minister Shah personally boarding the People's Bus and using a card to pay the fare. The ceremony was attended by various officials including Secretary Transport Asad Zamin, Secretary Information Nadeem ur Rehman Memon, and representatives from banking and technology sectors.
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