JUTC Acquires Additional Smarter Cards

The Jamaica Urban Transit Company (JUTC) has acquired additional smarter cards to fill the shortage in supply to commuters.

This was disclosed by Managing Director, JUTC, Colin Campbell during a recent interview with JIS News following the handing over of 73 new Volvo buses to the company.

The smarter cards are available at the JUTC’s East Parade office, downtown Kingston; Half-Way-Tree Transport Centre, St. Andrew; and the Spanish Town lay-by, St. Catherine.

The introduction of the robust electronic fare collection system forms part of measures to stop revenue leakage at the JUTC.

It will also foster greater efficiency in the processing of commuters boarding the buses, and allow for bus crews to focus on safer driving practices and improved customer service.

In the meantime, Mr. Campbell is urging commuters to start using their smarter cards as the company seeks to implement its cashless system by September.

“We will have different payment forms. We are going to be introducing a payment method called ultra light which will be similar to a prepaid phone card where you can actually buy a certain amount of bus fares on a prepaid card and use it as you go,” he said.

The new Volvo buses will augment the company’s existing fleet and will increase seating increase by 3,500.

Of the 73 buses delivered by JR Group Ltd., 69 have been delivered to the JUTC and four to Montego Bay Metro, which operates in the second city.