Namma Metro: In Phase II, no need to buy tickets, smart phones to open fare gates

Bengaluru: Namma Metro commuters will no longer have to wait in long queues to buy tickets or even carry their smart card on phase II as the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (BMRCL) is working on a plan to introduce QR code-based tickets. The new arrangement will allow Metro users to buy tickets through a mobile app.

The app will display the QR code which could be tapped at the automatic fare collection (AFC) gates at the Metro stations with AGS Transact Technologies Ltd providing the digital payment solutions and automation technology, BMRCL reports stated. The service provider will manage end-to-end AFC system (supply, installation and maintenance) across Namma Metro’s 61 new stations in Phase II over three years, BMRCL said.

A senior BMRCL official told Deccan Chronicle, “QR code-based tickets will be introduced for smart phone users. Plans are afoot to introduce national common mobility card (NCMC) in Phase II, which will help in the transition from tokens and tickets to QR code-based tickets. Soon BMRCL commuters will feel the efficient and hassle-free experience.”

The AGS-MSI consortium AFC-based ticketing system will use a combination of open-loop smart cards, radio frequency identification devices and QR codes to collect fares from the users, minimising the need for cash transactions.

Works on the 72-km Phase 2 lines such as Yelachenahalli-Anjanapura, Mysuru Road-Kengeri, RV Road-Electronics City, Byappanahalli-Whitefield and Nagasandra-BIEC section are progressing.