Transport technology updates in Colombia and Panama; James Rodríguez joins Atlético Nacional

Several regional developments are underway regarding public transport and sports. In Rionegro, Colombia, a pilot program has launched to allow passengers to pay for public transport using contactless debit/credit cards, smartphones, and smartwatches across five specific routes.

In Panama, SONDA is doubling its support staff to assist users during the transition to Account-Based Ticketing (ABT) technology for the Metro de Panamá and MiBus. This modernization involves upgrading over 3,500 validators to a cloud-based system. Simultaneously, the Empresa Nacional de Autopistas (ENA) is preparing to implement the ‘FreeFlow’ system, which uses automated gantries to allow vehicles to pass through corridors without stopping, potentially moving toward distance-based charging.

In sports, Colombian football star James Rodríguez has officially joined Atlético Nacional, marking a significant return for the former Real Madrid and Bayern Munich player.