Maha-Metro floats ₹154 crore AFC System Tender for Nagpur Metro Phase 2 Project

Nagpur, India (Metro Rail Today): Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation Limited (Maha-Metro) has invited bids for the design, supply, installation, testing and commissioning of an advanced Automatic Fare Collection (AFC) system for Nagpur Metro Phase 2. Valued at ₹154.30 crore, the tender marks a key milestone as the project moves closer to operational readiness.

Issued under tender number N2-079/AFC-04/2026, the contract includes a comprehensive scope covering not only deployment but also comprehensive annual maintenance (CAMC). The work is scheduled for completion over a period of 180 weeks, with a pre-bid meeting slated for April 24, 2026, and bid submissions due by May 25, 2026.

Smart, Contactless Fare Systems for Seamless Mobility

The proposed AFC system will feature open-loop EMV-based ticketing integrated with National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) compatibility and QR code-based access. This combination will enable passengers to use bank cards, mobile wallets and QR tickets for seamless entry and exit across the network, aligning Nagpur Metro with global best practices in contactless fare collection.

The deployment of open-loop systems is expected to enhance commuter convenience while reducing dependency on closed-loop cards, thereby improving system flexibility and scalability.

Commenting on the development, Mrs. Mamta Shah, MD & CEO, Urban Infra Group, said, “The adoption of open-loop AFC systems integrated with NCMC and QR technologies represents a major step toward creating a unified and seamless urban mobility experience. Such initiatives not only improve passenger convenience but also support the vision of interoperable, cashless transport systems across Indian cities.”

Strengthening Digital and Operational Efficiency

Beyond passenger convenience, the AFC system will play a crucial role in improving operational efficiency by enabling real-time data collection, better revenue management and enhanced system monitoring. The inclusion of long-term maintenance under the contract further ensures sustained performance and reliability.

Nagpur Metro has been at the forefront of adopting smart technologies, and this latest tender reinforces its commitment to building a digitally enabled, commuter-friendly transit network.

Phase 2 Expansion to Add 43.8 km Network

Nagpur Metro Phase 2 will extend the existing network by 43.8 kilometres through four extensions of the two operational corridors. The revised project cost stands at approximately ₹6,708 crore, with funding support from multiple sources, including equity contributions from the Central and State governments, as well as loans from the European Investment Bank (EIB) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

This expansion is expected to significantly enhance connectivity across the city and its surrounding areas, catering to growing urban mobility demands.

As Phase 2 progresses toward completion, the introduction of a next-generation AFC system will be instrumental in delivering a seamless and efficient commuter experience. With a strong emphasis on digitalisation, interoperability and ease of use, Nagpur Metro continues to position itself as a model for next-generation urban transport systems in India.