Kolkata Metro Launches New App: In a move aimed at enhancing passenger convenience and reducing crowding, especially during the upcoming Durga Puja festival, the Kolkata Metro Railway Corporation Limited (KMRCL) has introduced a new mobile application called ‘Kolkata Metro Ride’. This app allows commuters to purchase metro tickets digitally, eliminating the need to queue up at ticket counters.
Contactless Ticketing for Seamless Travel
Contents
The new app enables users to buy metro tickets from the comfort of their homes or while on the go. Passengers can seamlessly access the metro network by simply scanning a QR code at the entry gates. This contactless ticketing system is expected to significantly reduce waiting times at ticket counters, especially during peak hours and festive seasons.
Key Features of the Kolkata Metro Launches New App:
- Pre-purchase tickets: Commuters can purchase tickets in advance, eliminating the need to stand in queues at the ticket counters.
- QR code scanning: The app generates a unique QR code for each ticket, which can be scanned at the entry gates for hassle-free entry.
- Multiple ticket purchases: Users can purchase tickets for multiple journeys in a single transaction.
- Ticket validity: Each e-ticket is valid for 12 hours, allowing passengers to make multiple trips within a day using a single ticket.
- User-friendly interface: The app features a simple and intuitive interface, making it easy for users to navigate and purchase tickets.
Read More: TVS iQube 2024: A Game-Changer in Electric Mobility
Benefits of the Kolkata Metro Launches New App:
- Reduced waiting times: The app helps reduce waiting times and improve the overall passenger experience by eliminating the need to queue up at ticket counters.
- Contactless ticketing: The system promotes safety and hygiene by minimizing physical contact.
- Convenience: Passengers can purchase tickets anytime, anywhere, using their smartphones.
- Flexibility: The 12-hour validity period offers flexibility for passengers who need to make multiple trips within a day.
Implementation and Future Plans
The QR code-based ticketing system was initially piloted on the East-West Metro corridor and has now been extended to all metro stations in Kolkata. The KMRCL plans to further enhance the app by introducing additional features such as digital wallets, fare discounts, and personalized travel recommendations.
The launch of the Kolkata Metro Ride app marks a significant step towards modernizing the city’s public transportation system. By embracing digital technology, the KMRCL is not only improving the passenger experience but also contributing to a more sustainable and efficient urban transportation network.
This new system allows commuters to buy tickets for any station on these three corridors, offering greater flexibility.
The Automatic Fare Collection (AFC) gates at various stations on the Blue and Orange Lines have been upgraded to support the new ticketing system while the Green Line already has this facility. Paperless tickets purchased through the App are valid for up to 12 hours on a single calendar date after purchasing, eliminating the need for physical tickets.
Commuters can scan the QR code on smartphones at the AFC gates to enter and exit Metro stations.
Reddy expressed optimism that the new ticketing system would benefit Metro commuters by allowing them to purchase tickets conveniently without waiting in queues.
He also encouraged commuters to download the ‘Metro Ride Kolkata’ App.
Metro Railway Authorities expect that this trial implementation will make commuting more comfortable and enjoyable for passengers during the upcoming Puja festivities.
