Mysuru: The Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) has introduced AWATAR 2.0, an upgraded digital ticketing system that allows passengers to book and cancel bus tickets using a QR code, WhatsApp and the updated mobile application.

The new Advanced Web and Android Ticketing and Reservation (AWATAR) 2.0 system is aimed at making ticket booking more convenient for passengers travelling on KSRTC and its associated services.

According to Star of Mysore, QR codes have been placed on KSRTC buses, allowing passengers to access the ticketing system directly through their smartphones. The upgraded AWATAR app and WhatsApp ticketing facility were launched by Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar during the State Government’s 100-day celebrations at Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru.

QR code makes bus ticket booking easier

Under the new system, passengers can scan the QR code provided on KSRTC buses and access the ticket reservation facility.

The initiative is intended to reduce the steps involved in conventional ticket booking and provide passengers with a digital option that can be accessed through their smartphones.

The WhatsApp facility also enables passengers to book tickets for services operated by KSRTC, North Western Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (NWKRTC) and Kalyana Karnataka Road Transport Corporation (KKRTC).

Passengers can make reservations up to 30 days in advance. Once the booking is completed, the e-ticket is sent to the registered mobile number and email address.

WhatsApp booking available through one number

KSRTC has introduced a dedicated WhatsApp facility to simplify reservations.

Passengers can send a ‘Hi’ message to +91 63649-40880 to begin the booking process. An interactive system then guides users through the different stages of selecting their journey and completing the reservation.

The facility also supports ticket cancellation, allowing passengers to manage their bookings through the same digital platform.

The move is part of KSRTC’s wider effort to expand digital services and make public transport more accessible through commonly used mobile platforms.

Multiple payment options available

Passengers using the digital booking facility can pay for their tickets through several payment methods.

The available options include:

  • UPI
  • Credit cards
  • Debit cards
  • KSRTC Wallet

This gives passengers flexibility in completing their online reservations without having to visit a physical booking counter.

The official KSRTC AWATAR v2.0 application also lists online passenger reservation, advance ticket booking, ticket cancellation, PNR enquiry, SMS and email notifications, online payments and feedback among its features.

Complaint tracking added to the app

The upgraded digital system is not limited to ticket booking.

KSRTC has also introduced a complaint registration and tracking facility through the app. Passengers can use the system to submit complaints and monitor the status of their grievances.

If an issue is not resolved at the initial level, passengers can escalate the complaint to higher officials through the digital system.

The facility is intended to provide passengers with a more structured way to report problems and follow up on complaints instead of relying entirely on physical or telephone-based communication.

Digital monthly passes planned

KSRTC is also planning to introduce digital monthly passes in the future.

The proposed facility could provide regular passengers with another digital option for managing their travel requirements through mobile devices.

The expansion of online ticketing, complaint tracking and digital passes indicates a broader shift towards integrated digital passenger services within Karnataka’s state-run bus transport system.

AWATAR app continues to expand digital services

The AWATAR platform has become a central part of KSRTC’s online reservation system.

The official KSRTC AWATAR v2.0 app is available through Google Play and supports advance reservation, cancellation, PNR enquiry, notifications, online payments, feedback and KSRTC and KSTDC tour package services. The app listing was updated on September 10, 2026.

KSRTC’s online booking platform also provides facilities for bus ticket reservations, ticket cancellations and KSTDC tour bookings.

What passengers need to know

Passengers using the new AWATAR facilities can now choose between the mobile app and WhatsApp-based booking, while QR codes placed on buses provide another entry point to the digital reservation system.

For WhatsApp booking, passengers need to initiate the conversation by sending ‘Hi’ to the designated KSRTC number. The interactive pages then guide them through the reservation or cancellation process.

Tickets booked online are delivered electronically to the passenger’s registered contact details, reducing the need for physical tickets.

The system is particularly useful for passengers who regularly travel on long-distance KSRTC services and prefer to reserve seats in advance.

KSRTC moves towards more passenger-friendly services

The launch of AWATAR 2.0 represents another step in KSRTC’s efforts to make bus travel more convenient through digital services.

With QR-based access, WhatsApp booking, online payments, digital complaint tracking and planned monthly passes, the corporation is expanding the number of passenger services that can be accessed through smartphones.

The new system also brings KSRTC, NWKRTC and KKRTC services under the WhatsApp ticketing facility, giving passengers a common digital channel for reservations.

As the corporation continues to expand its digital infrastructure, the focus is increasingly shifting towards allowing passengers to book, cancel and manage their travel without depending solely on traditional reservation counters.