DMRC to introduce contactless ticketing system for Delhi Metro Rail Network

New Delhi, India (Urban Transport News): The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has decided to install Quick Response (QR) codes by upgradation of its Automatic Fare Collection (AFC) System. In this regard, DMRC has invited Expression of Interest (EOI) from private firms for implementation of QR code, EMV (enabled Account-Based Ticketing (Master/VISA), and RuPay based ticketing. The work will be awarded for a period of almost 11.5 years, including five years of operation and maintenance, from the date of commencement.

"In order to upgrade the ticketing technology, DMRC envisages to upgrade the existing Automatic Fare Collection System to enable the QR Code, EMV (Account-Based Ticketing) and Rupay based open-loop ticketing following the NCMC standard model as specified by MoHUA (Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs) for interoperability with other operators by use of non-proprietary standards so that the interface is scalable to other networks (transit operator/retail outlets/parking, etc.) in Delhi/NCR," said Anuj Dayal, Executive Director, Corporate Communications.

“There is a need for comprehensive maintenance of the AFC system of our Phase I, II and III stations. The existing AFC technology and infrastructure (hardware and software) need to be updated. The key dates for delivery and commissioning will be detailed out in the Request for Proposal document,” he added.

At present, the QR code ticketing system is only installed at the Delhi Metro Airport Express line for buying tickets. This system also supports the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) launched last year by Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi.

Under the QR-based ticketing system, users have to register on the mobile application Ridlr using their mobile number and email ID. They buy QR tickets by selecting the origin point, the destination station and the number of passengers who will travel. At a time, users can purchase a maximum of six tickets. For payment, users can use their credit or debit card (including new cards that have NCMC facility) while travelling on the airport express line.

DMRC now plans to make the QR code system available on its nine corridors, spread over 314 km and 245 stations by 2022. The officials said that this is being done according to the National Common Mobility Card standard model specified by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA).

According to DMRC, the Delhi Metro's average daily ridership is 2.86 million and it served about 100 crore riders in the financial year 2019-20. The move to go cashless and contactless may bring more commuters back to using the Delhi Metro Rail Network.