Riverina buses will now be trackable, allowing commuters the chance to see if buses are running on time.

As part of the Transport Connected Bus program, Riverina residents can also receive real-time updates and locations of active buses.

The upgrades give rural and regional communities more reliable trips, with passengers able to:

* Track their bus in real time using any travel app, including Opal Travel or via Transport for NSW’s Trip Planner website

* Get accurate arrival times and capacity information

* Access interactive maps, digital timetables, and route information

* Plan smoother journeys through Transport for NSW’s Trip Planner.

The smart technology system brings rural and regional NSW in line with greater Sydney and outer metropolitan areas. It means the state’s entire fleet of contracted buses, on regular and school services, can be tracked by passengers.

Minister for Roads and Minister for Regional Transport Jenny Aitchison said she heard the public outcry from regional public transport users and was happy to unveil the new technology.

“As someone who represents a regional community, I know how frustrating it is for regional commuters and public transport users who feel left behind when it comes to accessing real-time data. No matter where you live in NSW, you deserve the same quality public transport experience,” she said.

Currently, 3010 contracted buses across rural and regional NSW, which collectively cover more than 3880 routes and around 316,000 kilometres per day, are fitted with GPS and automatic passenger counting technology.