No provision for online payment at Pune Metro, Katraj zoo

PUNE: Only cash is being accepted for issuing tickets at Pune Metro stations and Katraj zoo when minimal-touch payment systems are being incorporated in most places.
While one can download the Pune Metro mobile application to book tickets by making online payment, the ticket counters at Metro stations continue to accept only cash.

Hemant Sonawane, PRO, Pune Metro, said that the mobile application was launched to help commuters avoid standing in long queues.
“The purpose of the application was to remit the need to visit the ticket counter at all. It is moot to accept online payment at the ticket counter since people do not have the rates for various stops memorised and will have to stand in line to get that information before making the payment, which negates the purpose of the application. On the app, one can select the destination and pay accordingly with digital wallets.” But not everyone would want to download the application if they don’t see themselves using the Metro service on a regular basis.
“With only four stops now, most people are riding the Metro for the experience of it. I don’t want to download the application and register just for one-time use,” said Richa Singh, a Kothrud resident. Zoo director Rajkumar Yadav said, “The PMC is in the process of launching a new website for the zoo, along with making technological updates for accepting online payments for all our paid facilities.” Rahul Jagtap, head of the IT department, PMC, said, “The tendering process for the website and online payment has been completed. We are in the final stages of receiving approvals and will soon give the work order to a city-based IT company to execute the same.”