RAWALPINDI: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has decided to implement a new digital payment system for the Metro Bus and Orange Line transport services across the province.
During a meeting with the transport department and Mass Transit Authority, it was decided to replace the token system with a barcode system for card-based payments.
This new system will accept payments via credit, debit, and ATM cards, as well as mobile apps. Near Field Communication (NFC) cards will also be usable in Lahore, Multan, Rawalpindi, and Islamabad.
The Orange Line train in Lahore will soon transition from tokens to e-payments through cards and apps. A universal T-Cash card was approved by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz for use on all Metro Buses and Orange Line trains province-wide, with a separate card for students.
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Additionally, the chief minister greenlit recruitment for technical posts from grade 5 to 18 within the transport department and discussed the introduction of electric rickshaws as an alternative to motorcycle rickshaws.
Plans were also set in motion for Punjab’s first international transport expo and the introduction of radio frequency identification (RFID) stickers for vehicle-related matters. The Yellow Line Lahore-Gujranwala bus rapid transit (BRT) system and the upcoming supply of electric buses across Punjab were also reviewed.
Furthermore, the meeting addressed the design and installation of prefabricated bus shelters in Lahore, with 50 shelters set to be installed soon.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz emphasized the importance of justice in her remarks on World Day for International Justice, stating that without justice, societal progress and prosperity remain elusive dreams.
