Pune passengers say New Shivajinagar ST counter takes only cash for Diwali bookings

Passengers heading home for Diwali are facing an unexpected problem at the New Shivajinagar bus station in Pune. Long queues have formed for reservations on State Transport (ST) buses. Passengers allege that the booking counter accepts only cash, making it difficult for those paying by digital means or card to complete their bookings.

The festival rush has made matters worse. Passengers who do not have the full amount in cash have to arrange the money before they can confirm a ticket. Those who carry cards or prefer online payment say they are unable to use their preferred method at the counter.

The alleged practice has also raised questions about the efforts of the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC). The corporation has been promoting cashless travel through the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) facility and digital methods. Passengers say, however, that the reservation facility at New Shivajinagar has not yet offered the same ease.

Passengers have also raised concern over a cash transaction. According to them, they are asked to transfer Rs 1,040 online to receive Rs 1,000 in cash. That means paying Rs 40 extra to get cash in hand.

The problem is not limited to festival bookings. Students and senior citizens who come to get ST travel passes made have also allegedly been asked to pay in cash. This has added to the inconvenience of those who travel by bus every day.

The complaints have exposed a gap between the corporation's cashless initiative and the facilities available at reservation counters. With demand for Diwali travel rising, passengers want easy digital payment options so that ticket booking and pass services do not depend entirely on cash.

In all, passengers have three complaints. First, card and online payments are not accepted at the counter. Second, an online transfer in place of cash costs Rs 1,040 for Rs 1,000. Third, students and senior citizens are being asked for cash for passes as well. In the festival crowd, all this is weighing more heavily on passengers.