3 firms bids for ticketing upgrade for Navi Mumbai Metro Line 1

Navi Mumbai, India (Metro Rail Today): On July 18, 2024, the Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Limited (MMRCL) took a significant step towards modernizing the Navi Mumbai Metro's Line-1 by opening technical bids for an ambitious upgrade to its Automatic Fare Collection (AFC) system. This development marks a pivotal enhancement to the metro network, aimed at improving the ease of access for passengers through advanced ticketing options.

Navi Mumbai Metro's Line-1, a crucial segment of the city's transit infrastructure, spans 11.1 kilometers from CBD Belapur Terminal to Pendhar. The line, which opened in November 2023, operates CRRC trains from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., maintaining a frequency of every 15 minutes. At present, commuters can only use RFID tokens purchased at the stations to access the metro service.

The planned upgrade for the AFC system will introduce a range of new features designed to enhance user convenience and operational efficiency. Here’s what the upgrade entails:

• Contactless Smart Cards and NCMC: The new system will support contactless smart cards (Type A) and the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC), facilitating smoother and quicker transactions for passengers.

• QR Ticketing: The upgrade will allow for both paper and mobile QR tickets, offering flexibility for users who prefer digital ticketing options.

• Message-Based and Web Ticketing: In addition to QR tickets, the new system will incorporate message-based ticketing and web ticketing options, expanding the ways passengers can purchase and manage their tickets.

• NFC Media: Near Field Communication (NFC) media will also be supported, further enhancing the convenience of contactless transactions.

The project includes a six-month deadline for completion, ensuring a swift transition to the upgraded system.

Bidders for the Upgrade Project

Three companies have submitted their technical bids for the AFC system upgrade:

1. Aurionpro Solutions Ltd.
2. Paycraft Solution Pvt. Ltd.
3. Satyam Software Solutions Pvt. Ltd.

These bidders will undergo a thorough technical evaluation, which is expected to take a few months. Following this, the financial bids of those who pass the technical scrutiny will be reviewed to select the most suitable contractor for the project.

Scope of Work

The scope of the AFC system upgrade encompasses several critical areas:

• Design and Installation: The project includes designing, manufacturing, supplying, installing, testing, and commissioning the new AFC system. This also involves replacing the existing system components, such as Automatic Gates (AG), Ticket Office Machines (TOMs), Excess Fare Offices (EFOs), Station Computers (SC), and Central Computers (CC).

• Central Computer System (CCS): The upgraded system will integrate with the Acquirer Bank/Financial Institution for seamless operation, including distributing passenger movement data and daily reports.

• Scalability and Future Integration: The system will be scalable to accommodate up to 512 stations and 64 fare zones. It is also designed to integrate with future extensions and other service providers.

• Interoperability: Compliance with guidelines from the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) and the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) for NCMC and QR ticketing will be ensured. The system will support both existing and future business rules of the Navi Mumbai Metro Line-1.

• Mobile and Web Applications: New features will include the ability to issue and cancel QR tickets, top-up cards, access real-time train information, provide feedback, and handle grievances. Integration with third-party applications like PayTM, ONDC, and MakeMyTrip will also be part of the upgrade.

• Operational Continuity: The project plan includes provisions to ensure uninterrupted revenue operations during the transition phase and responsibilities for site restoration post-engineering work.

The next phase involves the technical evaluation of the bids, which may take a few months. After this, the financial bids from the technically qualified bidders will be opened to determine the lowest bidder and select the most appropriate contractor for the AFC system upgrade.

The upgrade of Navi Mumbai Metro's Line-1 AFC system represents a significant advancement in the modernization of the city's metro network. By introducing a range of new ticketing options and improving overall system efficiency, this project aims to provide a more convenient and seamless travel experience for commuters. As the evaluation process progresses, the future of Navi Mumbai Metro looks promising with enhanced features set to improve daily transit operations.