Kochi: In a major push towards a cashless and integrated payment system incorporating various modes of transport, Axis Bank on Thursday signed an agreement with private bus operators for extending the usage of ‘Kochi-1’ metro card to over 1000 private buses in the city. However, it may take another six months before commuters can start using the cards, being rolled out by Axis Bank for the Kochi Metro Rail Ltd (KMRL), in the buses as currently the work of installation of GPS devices is progressing.
“The common ticketing system is being experienced for the first time across the country. The smartcards will be extended to water transport, taxi and autos in a phased manner. We’re also considering replication of the system in other major cities like Kozhikode,” said Transport Minister A.K. Saseendran who presided over the function held here.
“The new system will bring about extensive usage of the metro card and will go a long way in ensuring multimodal integration of transportation facilities,” said APM Mohammed Hanish, Managing Director, KMRL. The Kochi1 card is the country’s first open loop contactless metro card that offers a convenient and hassle free travel experience for commuters. The authorities have also rolled out a mobile app which can be used by commuters to manage their card and also to get QR tickets on the go for their travel.
Through this mobile app, commuters can check the current balance on their card, reload the card using any debit/ credit card, generate a mini statement and check time tables, fare details and even block their card if required. The card can also be used all over the country and used for other purposes like shopping.
“It can be used for all monetary transactions where the RuPay network works. The commuters can enjoy a discount while shopping just as they receive 20 per cent discount for travelling in metros using the cards. Besides the beneficiaries can enjoy facilities like free usage of lounges in airports, parking at metro stations at discounted rates etc,” said Sanjeev Moghe, Executive Vice president, Axis Bank. A commuter can buy a smartcard from any of the metro stations or Axis Bank branches for a payment of Rs 237, including Rs 75 as annual fees. However, he/she will have to pay Rs 12 as fees while recharging.
