BMTC to roll out smart ticketing system with 11,000 digital ETM devices

In a major push towards modernising the Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC), it is set to introduce a fully integrated digital ticketing solution across its bus network.

The long-awaited upgrade will replace existing fare collection methods with smart electronic ticketing machines (ETMs), aimed at improving efficiency and commuter convenience, according to BMTC officials.

BMTC has awarded a four-year contract to a mobility startup for the supply, operation, and maintenance of around 11,000 advanced ETMs. The agreement includes the deployment of a comprehensive ticketing software and back-end infrastructure, according to officials.

The new system is designed to support multiple digital payment options, including Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC). “The move comes in response to growing commuter demand for seamless, contactless payment options while travelling on city buses,” officials said.

Real-time ticketing set to replace it

Many passengers have previously flagged the QR-based system as inconvenient and outdated.“Unlike the current system, which largely depends on static UPI QR codes displayed inside buses, the upgraded ETMs will enable conductors to process payments and issue tickets in real time,” official added.

The smart ETMs are Android-based handheld devices equipped with high-resolution touchscreens and built-in thermal printers. “They will allow conductors to generate tickets instantly, scan QR codes, and accept card-based payments. The machines will also transmit ticketing data directly to BMTC’s central system using high-speed connectivity such as 5G or Wi-Fi,” an official explained.

The initiative builds on BMTC’s earlier attempt to digitise fare collection. In January 2024, the corporation introduced static UPI QR codes in nearly 75% of its buses following commuter requests. Since then, digital transactions have seen a steady rise.