It is anticipated that starting in 2025, a new era will begin in the public transportation system of Tashkent: plans are in place to eliminate cash payments and fully transition to an automated payment system. This was announced by Transport Minister Ilkhom Makhkamov on October 18 of this year during the event titled "Transport Reforms, Public-Private Partnership Projects, and the Role of International Cooperation Processes." This change aims to enhance the payment culture among the population, modernize and simplify transportation, and digitize the city's transport management system.
The shift to the new system involves not only the modernization of the payment infrastructure but also the provision of significant conveniences in public transport services. The installation of self-service information kiosks at bus stops will encourage passengers to utilize the electronic payment system instead of cash. This is crucial for the city of Tashkent, and although residents have already begun transitioning to card and QR payment systems, this new approach will enhance the efficiency of the sector.
According to the Ministry of Transport's press service, information kiosks have been installed at 18 stops along the 51st and 115th routes, and some buses now offer the option to pay via QR code. This process includes expanding the payment infrastructure and transitioning to a new model where bus conductors replace ticket cashiers.
As reported, the Ministry of Transport plans to purchase 1,294 new buses with the aim of introducing electric buses in the cities of Tashkent and Samarkand in the coming years, as well as expanding the overall bus fleet. Given the environmental challenges faced by cities, the introduction of electric buses is a significant step forward. This initiative is particularly aligned with the goal of increasing the number of electric buses to 2,000 by 2030, which will yield not only environmental but also economic benefits. Energy-efficient electric buses reduce fuel consumption and significantly improve air quality in urban areas.
At the same time, there are certain challenges to fully transitioning to the new system. The task of developing a payment culture and adapting the population to the new system will require some time. Technical maintenance, training, and informational outreach play a crucial role in this process. After implementing the automated payment system, the inability to pay in cash may hinder the transition. Therefore, the Ministry of Transport should develop measures across multiple directions from the outset to facilitate the population's adaptation to the new system.
The transition to an automated transport system in Tashkent is a project with significant potential, encompassing goals such as establishing modern infrastructure, improving the environmental situation, and creating a convenient transportation system for the city's residents. If successful, this model could serve as an example for other regions. With the shift to an automated system, Tashkent will become a modern city with enhanced ecological and economic efficiency, well-adapted to digital transformation.
It is expected that the new system will provide long-term benefits, particularly in enhancing payment culture, adapting technologies, and improving urban ecology.
Author: Ilkhomjon Sobirov.
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