sikkim-bus-bookings-now-cashless-and-digital

The Sikkim Transport Department has announced the implementation of a cashless digital payment system for bus bookings, in a move aimed at reducing cash transactions and streamlining the booking process for passengers.

According to a statement by the department, the decision aligns with its objective to modernise the booking experience.

The department has introduced multiple digital payment options for booking Sikkim Nationalised Transport (SNT) buses. These include:

1. UPI payment via Paytm Soundbox: All booking counters across Sikkim, including the Siliguri office, are now equipped with Paytm Soundbox devices. Passengers can make payments by scanning the QR codes provided on these devices.

2. UPI payment via Paytm stickers: Paytm stickers with QR codes have been affixed to all SNT buses, enabling passengers to scan and pay directly.

3. Debit/Credit card payment: Point of Sale (PoS) machines are available at the Gangtok and Siliguri booking offices. Passengers can pay by swiping their debit or credit cards or by scanning the QR codes on these devices.

4. Online bus ticket booking: Passengers can book tickets online through platforms such as RedBus, PhonePe, and their affiliated service providers.

5. Online bus ticket booking through SIKKIM CAB mobile app: The SIKKIM CAB Mobile App offers an online booking option for bus tickets, enhancing convenience for passengers.

In a related development, the Sikkim government has announced the launch of the Sikkim Cab mobile app for online taxi booking on a “sharing basis” between Gangtok and Siliguri.

This initiative is in response to recent tourist complaints about “exploitative” cab rates in Sikkim.

The motor vehicle division of the transport department will soon roll out the Sikkim Cab app, featuring a special category for shared bookings between Gangtok, Siliguri, Bagdogra, and NJP.

Under this system, different passengers will share the vehicle, with seating limited to five passengers.

The transport department has invited interested parties to enlist their vehicles for the shared service.

“Interested owners and drivers of luxury and maxi cab vehicles are requested to provide their details to the transport department as soon as possible,” a source from the department stated.

The vehicles must not be older than 10 years. Luxury vehicles can charge ₹1,000 per passenger, while maxi cabs can charge ₹400 per seat.