New Delhi, India (Metro Rail Today): In a major boost to public transportation in the National Capital Region (NCR), the National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) and the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to integrate their ticketing systems. This partnership, unveiled today, marks a significant step toward enhancing commuter convenience and supporting the 'One India - One Ticket' initiative.
The MoU was signed in the presence of Shalabh Goel, Managing Director of NCRTC, and Dr. Vikas Kumar, Managing Director of DMRC. This collaboration aims to streamline the travel experience for passengers by enabling them to book QR code tickets for both Namo Bharat trains and the Delhi Metro network through a single platform.
Key Features of the Integration:
Dual Ticket Booking: Passengers booking tickets for Namo Bharat trains via the RRTS Connect App will now have the option to simultaneously book Delhi Metro tickets. Conversely, those using the DMRC Mobile App to secure Metro tickets can also add a Namo Bharat train ticket to their purchase.
Unified QR Codes: The integration will facilitate the generation of unique QR codes for both services. Namo Bharat train tickets will include a Delhi Metro QR code on the RRTS Connect App, while DMRC Mobile App users will receive a Namo Bharat QR code for their train journeys.
This move is expected to significantly enhance the passenger experience by simplifying the booking process and reducing the need for multiple ticketing apps. It aligns with the broader goals of the PM National Gati Shakti Master Plan, which emphasizes seamless connectivity between various modes of transportation.
Benefits and Impact:
Enhanced Convenience: The unified ticketing system will alleviate the need for passengers to switch between different ticketing platforms, thus saving time and reducing queues at both NCRTC and DMRC stations.
Promotion of Digital Transactions: By encouraging the use of integrated digital ticketing, the initiative supports environmental sustainability and modernizes the travel experience.
Efficient Transportation: The integration is designed to foster a more efficient and user-friendly transportation network across Delhi-NCR. It complements the existing 42 km RRTS corridor, which is connected to the 393 km DMRC network, facilitating a unified travel experience across the region.
This development follows a recent agreement between NCRTC and IRCTC, allowing Namo Bharat train tickets to be booked on the IRCTC platform. The Namo Bharat trains, designed for speeds up to 180 km/h and operational speeds of 160 km/h, aim to cut travel times within the region by up to one-third. Once the full 82 km corridor is completed by 2025, passengers will be able to travel between Delhi and Meerut in under an hour.
The NCRTC and DMRC's integrated ticketing system is a key step toward improving public transportation and promoting rail-based green travel within the Delhi-NCR region. It is expected to boost ridership and support the long-term sustainability of these significant infrastructure projects.