Urban bus service timetables available online in real time
CORFU. Passengers will soon also be able to pay on the bus with a credit or debit card.
The company that manages the urban transport services in Corfu has upgraded its services with the aim of providing better and faster service to its passengers. Since the beginning of the new year, it has launched a new service that allows passengers to check the estimated bus arrival times at stops in real time through the website https://astikoktelkerkyras.gr/.
Furthermore, a related application is expected to be available soon, not only in Greek but also in other languages to serve foreign visitors.
QR codes
The process is very simple, as the user can choose the stop they are interested in from the website, regardless of their location, and find out the remaining time until the arrival of the bus. It's easy and fast.
QR codes have also been installed at all stops for the exact same purpose for the past year. The user can scan the code with their smartphone and immediately find out in how many minutes the bus will arrive.
"The telematics system with fixed electronic information boards for arrivals-departures of routes at stops has been surpassed," Corfu Urban KTEL Director Alexandros Pagalis told Enimerosi. "Now, via the website, users can be informed in real time about routes and bus arrival times, and very soon the app will be ready. In addition, since last year, we have installed QR codes at all our stops for the exact same purpose."
Mr. Pagalis added tha soon a new service will be available to the public, concerning payment for tickets inside the bus. Apart from the traditional way, payment will be possible directly with a credit or debit card.
The price will be the same as the one issued within the bus, which means it will be higher than if one purchased it from sales points located near the stops (vending machines, ticket offices, kiosks, etc.).
He said that the Corfu Urban KTEL fleet of buses is renewed every year and seven buses have already been replaced, while more will follow by the summer. Additionally, the company will proceed with the replacement of bus shelter roofs at certain stops such as Viros and Sfagia, although as he pointed out, "the lack of infrastructure hinders their placement", referring to the narrow streets and rudimentary sidewalks that make it difficult.
25% fewer passengers
However, the consequences of coronavirus continue to affect passenger traffic on urban transport. According to Mr. Pagalis, passenger traffic is down 25% compared to 2019, as the changes brought about by the pandemic in our daily habits are still evident.
