Sindh Transport and Mass Transit Minister, Sharjeel Inam Memon, revealed on Tuesday that the eagerly anticipated Peoples Bus Service (PBS) smartphone app will be officially launched on June 22nd. The announcement came during a transport department meeting chaired by the minister, where various aspects of the bus service were discussed, including new routes, the intelligent transport system (ITS), and the command & control room.
The briefing highlighted that the buses in the PBS fleet will be equipped with state-of-the-art features, including CCTV cameras, audio systems, USB connections, Wi-Fi, and driver alarms, all integrated within the intelligent transport system. The ITS will activate CCTV cameras, screens for live tracking and monitoring, ensuring enhanced safety and security for passengers. Furthermore, the mobile app will enable citizens to track the buses in real-time and make online payments for a seamless travel experience.
In addition to the app launch, Minister Memon emphasized the importance of prioritizing electric bus charging infrastructure. The plan includes the addition of 20 green buses to the PBS fleet in Karachi by August 20th, further promoting eco-friendly transportation solutions.
The Sindh government has instructed Minister Memon to utilize the PBS to establish connectivity between rural areas such as Karachi, Hyderabad, Larkana, Sukkur, and Mirpurkhas with the metropolitan regions, aiming to facilitate hassle-free travel for commuters.
The PBS mobile app will offer users general information about routes, schedules, and fees, enabling them to plan their trips effectively. Another significant feature of the app is real-time bus tracking, allowing commuters to know the estimated arrival time of the next bus. Additionally, users will have access to information about the last bus of the day.
The third and noteworthy feature of the app is the ability to purchase and activate a card or make payments for the PBS using a QR code. It provides a convenient and cashless payment option for passengers. The launch of the mobile app marks an important milestone in enhancing the public transportation system in Sindh.