Useful links:
Transit News | Transit Press Releases | sQuid schemes - Transit

eMoney News

Smart card issues debated in Holland
26 Nov 2009

The introduction of the contactless smart card used for the metro in Amsterdam and Rotterdam has created a complex payment system for passengers, it has been reported.

According to Dutch News, people who live in the two cities are finding that they often have to pay twice when crossing networks run by different transport companies.

Known as the ov-chipkaart, the smart card set-up was established earlier this year and is the only form of payment accepted on the metro in Amsterdam and Rotterdam.

Due to the different systems used by transport firms, there is not one set fee structure.

The mayor of London Boris Johnson and Transport for London announced this week that passengers will be able to use the already-widely available Oyster card to pay for over-ground train services in the English capital.

Unlike the Dutch equivalent, Londoners will be able to use the smart card to pay for journeys that involve travelling on the services of different companies.

Chiltern, National Express East Anglia, London Midland, First Great Western, First Capital Connect, Southern, Southeastern and South West Trains will all offer Oyster access from January 2nd.