THE Gauteng government on Thursday introduced a smart card system for commuters to use to pay taxi fares, ushering in a new phase of cashless commuting, SABC radio news reported on Thursday. Provincial transport MEC Joyce Kgoali said the new system will be introduced over the next two to three months. The smart cards will be sold at taxi ranks and post offices, Kgoali said. She hailed the changes as the beginning of cashless travelling for commuters. Under the system, smart card-carrying members involved in taxi accidents will be compensated under the death and disability cover provided by the Gauteng Taxi Council. Kgoali also announced the upgrading of existing taxi ranks. Businesses providing fuel, oil and taxi parts are to be built at ranks. The improvements could create up to 900 jobs, Kgoali said.