Regulations have recently changed and today, passengers riding the buses in Jerusalem must charge their Rav Kav smart card via their computer, smartphone application or at one of the many charging stations at bus stops, which are similar to an ATM. The Ministry of Transportation decided drivers will no longer fill a smart card, as reported by YWN-Israel, removing another distraction from their main duty, driving the bus safely. This does speed up boarding a bus, but it makes life more difficult for chareidim, children and senior citizens, as many do not have computers, smart phones, or even credit cards.

MyNet Jerusalem decided to determine how many Rav Kav charging stations there are, reporting the city has 2,100 bus stops. The report states that at 80% of the stops, there is no charging station for one’s smart card.

MyNet also reports that if one arrives at a stop that does not permit charging one’s card, will be compelled to buy a new trip card, even if he has a Rav Kav. He will then have to pay for the trip on the bus, so the deal will cost NIS 10.90 instead of a regular trip costing NIS 5.90.

The Transportation Ministry promised to put 400 charging stations at bus stops, and MyNet adds that 100 of them permit paying in cash or credit card, while the other 300 only accept credit cards.

The Transportation Ministry reports one can charge one’s card at over 400 stations, as one can also charge it at the central bus station, at light rail stations, and dozens of Coffix and Mayan 2000 branches, which offer the service as well as dozens of minimarkets and grocery stores in the city.

(YWN Israel Desk – Jerusalem)