STC’s online booking system crashes, and leaves customers stranded
Customers of Intercity STC were left stranded and confused as the company’s online booking platform became inaccessible – a system that has, until now, been working to serve customers of the transport company.
Several passengers who attempted to book tickets through the STC website and digital channels reported persistent errors and downtime.
According to some customers, repeated attempts to purchase tickets online proved futile, forcing them to physically visit bus terminals to secure seats.
One frustrated customer told reporters, “We’ve been booking online all this time without issues. Suddenly, the website isn’t working. When we asked, we were told a new company is taking over. But why change something that was already working perfectly?”
This sentiment is shared by many passengers who have relied on STC’s digital system for convenience, especially during peak travel periods.
Upon cross-checking, we were told that a different company is scheduled to take over the IT system, which has been causing discomfort to these customers.
Customers say they rarely experienced breakdowns and are surprised STC, after doing so well with their IT system in recent times, will sit aloof to watch their system fail at this crucial festive period, where passengers will be booking travels across the country.
The sudden disruption has raised questions: Why replace a system that has been delivering strong results?
Was the transition properly planned or tested?
How much revenue is STC losing each day the system remains offline?
Transport analysts warn that system disruptions could lead to significant losses for STC and other operators, considering the volume of daily bookings handled online.
When digital ticketing fails, revenue leakage becomes more likely, and customers face long queues and delays.
Passengers say the lack of communication about the transition has made the situation even more frustrating.
A traveller shared, “We rely on online booking to avoid queues. If the site is down and nobody explains what is happening, it affects us. Government is losing revenue, and customers are suffering.”
As demand for digital transport solutions grows, industry watchers emphasise that stability, reliability, and continuity are critical, especially for national operators like STC.
For now, customers hope the booking platform is restored quickly and that clearer communication is provided to avoid further inconvenience.
