By Mercy Darko
The much talked about Tap and Go App for the transport system has officially been launched with the Metro Mass Transit being the first public transport operator to sign onto the App.
This new app adds up to the digital transformation spearheaded by the government. Vice President Bawumia who outdoored the App in Accra said the government was losing about 50 percent of revenue generated at the Metro Mass Transit annually due to nefarious activities.
He said since the pilot phase started, revenue generation has improved significantly. Dr Bawumia said the Tap and Go App will eliminate the paper ticketing system, ensure security of passengers and improve the overall transport system in the country.
He announced that by the end of the year, the Metro Mass Transit will take delivery of 100 new electric buses.
The Metro Mass Transit was established with the focus to provide intercity transport for comm. Over the years, the MMT has been faced with challenges that have affected passenger experience.
To this end, the Tap and Go system will address these challenges to improve operations and ensure security of commuters. Government in collaboration with the private sector developed the app which is a common platform for intra and intercity transport.
The system is equipped with unique features such as parcel delivery tracking which will enable people to track the transportation of their goods.
Vice President Bawumia indicated that the system will revolutionise the public transport system and eliminate the banter between drivers and passengers over change. He called on Ghanaians to embrace this initiative.
Minister of Transport, Kwaku Ofori Asiamah in a remark said while the government initiates policies that will transform the sector, there is the need for drivers to be disciplined on the roads to prevent needless accidents which claim precious lives.
Managing Director of Metro Mass Transit Ltd, Albert Adu Boahen, said the launch of the app will not only change the way business is done at the various terminals but improve revenue generation as manual ticketing will be eliminated. He said by May 31, all other terminals will be digitised through the Tap and Go App.
Tap and Go, which is available for download on the Google Playstore and Apple App Store, operates like the established ride-hailing apps such as Uber, Yango and Bolt.
Passengers have the opportunity to Dial 713091# and select option 4 to book an advance ticket among others.
