Kolkata Metro Railway is embracing digital transformation to enhance commuter experience and streamline ticketing processes. In response to the perennial challenge of providing exact change at ticket counters, the Metro authorities are introducing a digital payment mode in collaboration with the State Bank of India and the Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS). This initiative aims to simplify fare transactions, reduce reliance on physical currency, and improve efficiency in ticketing services.
The upcoming UPI-based ticketing system promises a seamless experience for commuters traveling between Kolkata and Howrah railway station. By eliminating the need for exact cash payments, this innovation will alleviate the inconvenience faced by passengers and expedite the ticketing process. During a trial run conducted at Sealdah station of the East-West Metro, the Metro Railway General Manager personally tested the new payment mechanism, signaling the imminent integration of digital solutions into the metro infrastructure. Upon completion of the trial phase, the UPI-based ticketing system will be rolled out initially on the East-West Metro (Green Line), offering commuters a hassle-free way to purchase tickets using their smartphones. By scanning a QR code displayed at ticket counters and specifying their destination station, passengers can make secure payments and receive QR Code-based paper tickets instantly. This convenient method will not only facilitate smoother transactions but also pave the way for future enhancements, such as smart card recharge through the same digital platform. Furthermore, the successful implementation of this digital payment initiative on the Green Line will serve as a catalyst for its expansion across other metro corridors. Commuters traveling on the Dakshineswar-New Garia, Ruby-New Garia, and Joka-Taratala stretches can anticipate the integration of similar digital ticketing solutions, underscoring the Metro Railway’s commitment to modernizing its services and enhancing passenger convenience.
Kolkata Metro’s transition to a digital payment mode represents a significant step towards modernizing its ticketing infrastructure and improving commuter satisfaction. By leveraging technology to streamline fare transactions and reduce dependency on physical currency, the Metro Railway aims to enhance efficiency and convenience for passengers across its network. As the UPI-based ticketing system is gradually rolled out across multiple corridors, commuters can look forward to a more seamless and user-friendly journey experience, setting the stage for further advancements in urban transportation technology.
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