Here’s Why BMTC UPI payments have stopped working
The problem has escalated in recent days, especially since last week. Disheartened commuters resorted to Twitter to voice their grievances about how BMTC UPI payments have stopped working.
There has been a considerable buzz surrounding the usage of online payment methods like UPI for purchasing BMTC tickets.
Despite the option to pay for BMTC tickets via UPI, passengers frequently express frustration over BMTC conductors’ apparent reluctance to accept digital payments.
The problem has escalated in recent days, especially since last week. Disheartened commuters resorted to Twitter to voice their grievances about how BMTC UPI payments have stopped working.
They highlighted that the disruptions in UPI payment services were the underlying cause of the issue. According to commuters, the electronic ticketing machines (ETMs) provided to conductors have been malfunctioning.
Commuters also report that conductors have been instructed by BMTC officials not to accept UPI payments, exacerbating the problem.
Arshad, a regular commuter on the BMTC KIA 8D from the Airport to Sarjapur Road, revealed that conductors have admitted to being instructed not to facilitate UPI transactions.
Another passenger shared, “During peak hours, especially in the evening, conductors prefer cash payments over UPI. This indicates that UPI may not function reliably during crowded or peak hours.”
What’s up with @BMTC_BENGALURU ?
— Dayanand Raut (@dayadelegend) May 10, 2024
Morning they will accept payment via upi, evening they will accept only cash. Apparently upi doesn’t work in the evening or when the bus is crowded.
Allegedly, the issue stems from faults in Canara Bank’s payment gateway, as BMTC has a partnership with Canara Bank for its ETMs.
Concerned citizens, including members of Friends of BMTC, have documented instances where the ETM application displays errors while attempting to process payments.
There seems to be an issue with the UPI facility in @BMTC_BENGALURU buses. Conductors are announcing that UPI is not being accepted once you board the buses. The issue is being looked into.
— Friends Of BMTC (@FriendsofBMTC) May 10, 2024
In the meanwhile, kindly carry some cash/emergency cash to assist in purchasing tickets. pic.twitter.com/1kr9v0Z0YU
Both commuters and conductors have accused BMTC officials of instructing conductors not to accept online payments.
However, BMTC officials have refuted these claims, asserting that the organization is not experiencing any server issues.
“We are not facing any server issues within BMTC,” a senior BMTC official was quoted saying by the Bangalore Mirror.
@ChristinMP_ from Jan to last week bmtc volvos were happily accepting UPI payment. I had to pay cash only twice. Today no scanner only cash. Problem is not cash but the haggling for change as cash transactions are quite low outside. Will update if this is an exception or feature
— Neelacantan (Neel) (@neelearning) May 13, 2024
Despite the ongoing challenges, nearly all BMTC buses are equipped with online payment capabilities. With approximately 6,132 buses operating across Bengaluru and nearly 30 lakh passengers relying on them for transportation.
Addressing these issues promptly is imperative for ensuring a seamless commuting experience.
