Mumbai Gets Chalo Mobile App and Smart Card for Bus Travel

Chalo, an India-based bus transport technology company, which provides live bus tracking services and contactless payment solutions, recently launched its eponymous app in Mumbai in collaboration with Brihanmumbai Electric Supply & Transport (BEST) Undertaking.

The  &lsquoChalo mobile app&rsquo and &lsquoBEST Chalo&rsquo tap-to-pay digital smart card (in compliance with National Common Mobility Card  or NCMC) was recently launched by Maharashtra Tourism and Environment Minister Aditya Thackeray.

According to the company, Chalo is a free app that allows passengers to live track their bus and tells them at what time the bus will reach the desired stop. Besides, travelling with a mobile bus pass is more convenient than paying cash.

Facilitating effortless and convenient bus travel, the smart card will allow BEST passengers to recharge, purchase and renew BEST bus tickets and passes, respectively, through an e-wallet. Passengers can also get details like real-time tracking of buses, how congested it is, along with expected time of arrival.

For the maintenance of the app, an undertaking of Rs 85 crore has been disbursed.&nbspThis mobile application is also going to provide 72 new 'Super Saver' travel itineraries.

Also Read 5 Useful Apps for Travellers Who Like to Use Public Transport

Lokesh Chandra, IAS, General Manager of BEST said this is India's first digital bus project of this scale. He added, people, do not have to worry about carrying loose change any more.

The state tourism minister also outlined several steps to improve commuting facilities in Mumbai, such as increasing the number of double-decker buses, including hydrogen-powered buses, improving bus stops and illuminating dark streets, etc.