In a significant move to enhance passenger convenience, the Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) has officially launched bus ticket booking services through the popular Mana Mitra WhatsApp Governance platform. This initiative allows travelers to secure their seats in advance directly via WhatsApp, marking a new chapter in digital public service delivery.
How to Book Your APSRTC Ticket on WhatsApp
APSRTC Executive Director (ED) of Operations, Appalaraju, outlined the straightforward procedure for passengers. To initiate a booking, users must send a "Hi" message to the dedicated WhatsApp number: 9552300009. Following this, an interactive menu will guide them through the process.
Passengers need to select "choose services," then pick "APSRTC," and proceed to the "ticket booking" option. The subsequent steps involve entering precise journey details and passenger information, followed by completing the payment through integrated online payment gateways. Upon successful transaction, the confirmed bus ticket is delivered directly to the user's WhatsApp chat, ensuring a seamless and paperless experience.
Shifting From Traditional Booking Channels
This new WhatsApp-based system introduces an official, direct booking channel for APSRTC. Previously, the corporation's advanced reservation facility was primarily accessible through third-party Business-to-Consumer (B2C) platforms such as Red Bus, Abhibus, and PayTM, alongside authorized ticket booking (ATB) agents across the state.
The Mana Mitra integration aims to simplify the process, reduce dependency on multiple apps, and provide a unified, government-run interface for commuters, especially those familiar with WhatsApp.
Drive for Passenger Awareness and Adoption
To ensure widespread awareness of this new facility, Appalaraju has directed all 26 District Public Transport Officers (DPTOs) to undertake proactive promotional measures. The directives include installing prominent flex banners at all ticket reservation and booking counters within RTC bus station premises.
Furthermore, instructions have been issued to paste informative stickers inside buses and to make regular announcements using the public address systems at bus stations. This multi-pronged awareness campaign is designed to educate every passenger about the ease and availability of WhatsApp-based ticket booking.
The launch of ticket booking on Mana Mitra's WhatsApp Governance platform represents APSRTC's commitment to leveraging widely-used digital tools for public good. It promises to make advanced bus reservations more accessible, efficient, and user-friendly for millions of passengers across Andhra Pradesh.
