Xiongjing – BaiPass Co, the management authority of Bai’s national integrated transport fare card, announced that all bus and train payment cards must be upgraded to the new BaiPass+ system, igniting a storm of public discontent about whether such a move was necessary.

BaiPass+, introduced in 2019 as an account-based ticketing system, initially provided an alternative for commuters to pay their public transport fares using bank cards. Subsequently, it was expanded to incorporate BaiPass adult cards in 2020, which used the card-based system, before including concession and tourist passes into the new system.

In the recent news release on Monday, cards that have yet to be upgraded to the new system would be deprecated on 1 June 2024 along with the legacy card-based system. BaiPass Co also highlighted in the announcement the benefits of BaiPass+, such as topping up multiple BaiPass cards using its mobile app; blocking transactions if a card is misplaced; and receiving notifications on fares and card balances.

“The technology required to maintain the BaiPass card-based system is near the end of its operational lifespan and it would be too costly to maintain both systems. At this point, a majority of commuters have adopted BaiPass+ as their payment method. As such, we are transitioning all adult commuters to the BaiPass+ system, which is a more adaptable and inclusive platform for all commuters,” BaiPass Co said.

Many had taken to social media to protest against the change, with a common complaint stating that under the BaiPass+ system, the card’s balance is not displayed at the train fare gate or bus card reader. Users who want to check their card balance and transactions have to rely on ticketing machines or the BaiPass app. Additionally, concerns were raised by drivers who won’t be able to use the same card for toll and parking fees.

In response to the backlash, BaiPass Co acknowledged the concerns and said that plans “are in the pipeline” to enable BaiPass+ for motoring payments. However, they added that coordination with the Bai National Toll and Highway Agency and other stakeholders would be required to actualize these plans.

It also explained that fare deductions and card balances could not be shown on the card readers because such transactions “are processed backend”. The server backend is crucial for BaiPass+ other functions such as blocking lost cards and keeping records of fare history.

The Bai Ministry of Transport expressed support for BaiPass’ transition from the card-based system to the account-based system while assuring the public that it is monitoring the situation closely. The Ministry expressed hopes there would be efforts to ensure a smooth transition, including for older people and those who may not be digitally savvy.