Vijayawada: Sending parcels through Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) logistics has become an acerbating experience for many customers as long queues and inadequate facilities leave them frustrated and physically drained.
With the booking centre operating with just two (occasionally, three) counters, customers spend hours waiting in queues to send the parcels. Adding to the ordeal is the lack of UPI payment options, which forces customers to rely on cash transactions. Those who arrive without sufficient cash are left scrambling for ATMs, while those with cash more than the bill amount, often face delays as counter personnel cite a “no change” problem, thus, compelling customers to wait even longer.
“I stood in the queue for over an hour, only to be told they didn’t have change for a 500 note. It’s infuriating,” said Ravi Kumar, a local businessman, who was sending chillies to his relatives in Hyderabad.
Meanwhile, several customers allege that counter personnel demand amounts exceeding the official billing.
“I was charged 50 more than the printed bill for my parcel. When I questioned it, they brushed it off, saying it was a standard practice,” said Lakshmi Devi, a homemaker.
Recently, customers urged APSRTC to increase the number of counters and enable UPI payments at all logistics booking centres to reduce delays and inconvenience. “In this digital age, how can such a prominent service provider not offer UPI payments? It’s unacceptable,” said Ram Prasad, a construction company employee, who was sending files to his office’s Hyderabad branch.
APSRTC executive director K S Brhamanda Reddy told TOI that officials aren’t aware of overcharging and other issues, adding, “An inspection will be initiated and the needful will be done at the earliest.”
