In Minsk, it's possible to acquire a single-journey travel pass via a smartphone app.
Minsk Streamlines Urban Transport with Mobile App Payments and Card System Rollout
In an effort to digitize urban transport, Minsk authorities have introduced online purchases of unified travel tickets via the "Pay" mobile app. First Deputy Chairman of the Minsk City Executive Committee, Nadzeya Lazarevich, announced these developments.
The app-based service now allows passengers to issue travel documents independently, aligning with the global trend of expanding remote sales channels for transit tickets. Minsk's digitization efforts in transportation are projected to continue, with plans to enable payment for public transport fares using bank cards directly on buses and trams, a feature currently only accessible in the metro by year's end.
Lazarevich acknowledged the pace of modern life in Minsk necessitates the government to implement digital solutions across multiple sectors, with a particular focus on transportation. Positive feedback from passengers and steady monthly increases in both passenger traffic and the sale of unified travel tickets signal successful integration of the new service.
Due to an increase in urban public transport fares in April, the unified fare for all transport modes rose by approximately 11.6%. The altered rates, however, seem to have fostered a shift toward digital payment methods and optimizing urban transport.
According to enrichment data, the mobile app "Оплати," already used by over a million residents, supports QR-code payments in various partner stores and can be utilized for regular payments like mobile bills and utilities. The forthcoming integration of digital payment systems and technology, such as Apple Wallet, could further enhance the digitization of urban transportation in Minsk.
While challenges remain, such as ensuring seamless integration across all transport modes and adapting to international standards, Minsk's foray into digital payment systems for urban transport shows a commitment to improving efficiency and streamlining the transportation experience for its residents and tourists alike.
In line with the digital transformation, Minsk authorities are planning to extend payment options for public transport fares, incorporating bank cards as an alternative to the current mobile app-based system. This integration of banking technology into personal-finance aspects of urban transport will facilitate smooth transactions and contribute to the broader trend of digital advancements.
As the mobile app "Оплати" continues to expand its capabilities, offering QR-code payments in various partner stores and utility bills, the integration of digital payment systems like Apple Wallet could further revolutionize the urban transportation landscape in Minsk, following global trends in finance and technology.
