Image Source : dtnext
Starting August 1, Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has officially phased out its legacy travel cards, marking a full transition to the Singara Chennai Card, a National Common Mobility Card (NCMC)-compliant system. The move is part of a broader initiative to streamline urban mobility and unify payment systems across public transport modes. Commuters are now required to switch to the new card format, which promises greater convenience, interoperability, and digital integration.
Key transition highlights
- From August 1, old CMRL travel cards can no longer be recharged at any of the 41 metro stations across Chennai
- Commuters may continue using their existing cards only until the stored balance is exhausted
- Once the balance drops below Rs 50, passengers must surrender the old card at a metro ticket counter
- In exchange, they will receive the Singara Chennai Card free of cost, with the remaining balance and refundable deposit automatically transferred
About the Singara Chennai Card
- Introduced in April 2023, the Singara Chennai Card aligns with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs’ NCMC guidelines
- It serves as a unified payment solution for metro trains, buses, toll booths, and other urban transport services
- The card supports cashless travel and is designed to reduce the need for multiple tickets or transport-specific cards
- Future upgrades may allow usage in parking facilities and select retail outlets, further expanding its utility
Commuter experience and support
- CMRL has set up help desks at all metro stations to assist passengers during the transition
- The new card system is expected to reduce paper usage and promote eco-friendly commuting
- Digital ticketing options such as QR code-based tickets via mobile apps remain unaffected and continue to be available
- Single journey tokens will also remain in circulation for occasional travelers
Rationale behind the shift
- The transition supports the Government of India’s “One Nation, One Card” initiative aimed at integrating transport payments nationwide
- CMRL aims to simplify fare collection, reduce operational overhead, and enhance commuter convenience
- The move also aligns with broader smart city goals, promoting digital infrastructure and seamless mobility
Impact on commuters
- Regular passengers who rely on top-ups must now switch to the new card to continue uninterrupted travel
- The transition is expected to be smooth, with no financial burden on users due to the free card replacement
- Commuters are advised to check their card balances and initiate the exchange process proactively to avoid last-minute delays
Conclusion
The Chennai Metro’s shift to the Singara Chennai Card marks a significant step toward modernizing urban transport in the city. With enhanced functionality, broader compatibility, and a user-friendly upgrade process, the new system is poised to improve the daily commute for thousands of passengers. CMRL’s proactive support measures and alignment with national mobility standards reflect a forward-looking approach to public transport management.
Sources: Times Now, The Hindu, News Today, DT Next, News24 India, MSN India
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