Technology does not only create new opportunities in the environment where it is adopted, it serves as light.
This was evident today in several places in Oyo State, as the Pacesetter Transport Services under the second term administration of His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde, kicks off the digital use of the Omituntun buses in the State serving as the subsidized transport service for the people in the State, through the use of the Pacesetter (Omituntun) Cards.
Beautiful grins filled the faces of most people as they proudly flaunt their newly introduced Pacesetter (Omituntun) Cards which now serve as their means of payment for boarding on the Omituntun buses.
Before now, commuters have lodged several complaints both physically and via calls on radio programs, of the possible unaccountability of the generated revenue from the promising transport services. While some complained that they are seldom not issued tickets, some noted that the fares vary from time to time, and these continuously posed fear for the sustainability of the economic relief scheme and services of the Pacesetter Transport Services.
However, as promised, quick response and swift actions were taken to put in check the likely loopholes that could negatively affect the sustainability of the operation, and this included the adoption of technological means to effect payment; the Pacesetter (Omituntun) Cards was introduced.
Today, the usage of the cards were formally introduced and kicked off majorly at inter-city loading points, by ensuring that all commuters traveling between cities in the State (the geopolitical zones) are issued the card FREELY, then recharged immediately to serve as their payment for the journey.
Meanwhile, same was effected in intra-city locations too, but not strictly implemented, as the SUPER AGENTS assigned to each buses effect the payments tentatively for the commuters pending when a good number of the Pacesetter (Omituntun) Cards will saturate the State.
While some commuters expectedly kicked against the new development, most commuters were delighted and made positive comparisons with developed parts of the world.
Technology is no longer the future, technology is now. Hence, it is the responsibility of every progress loving individual in the State to embrace the new development amongst other development in the State.
Meanwhile, we look forward to reviews and recommendations as we continue to ensure ease for everyone in the State.
Signed:
Hon. Dr. Dikko Salami
Chairman/Sole Administrator of Pacesetter Transport Services