Chennai Metro has consistently surpassed the 90 lakh mark in monthly ridership, with 90.8 lakh commuters using the service in October, following a peak of 92.7 lakh in September. This marks the third consecutive month of strong performance, reflecting the growing reliance on metro services in the city.
Over half of these commuters used digital payment methods, opting for the Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) travel cards or the Singara Chennai National Common Mobility Card (NCMC), which offers a 20% discount on fares. While digital payments gain traction, traditional paper-based QR tickets still accounted for 23% of the total sales in October. A notable surge in ridership occurred on October 6, when over 4 lakh people travelled on the metro due to the Indian Air Force’s air show. The Government Estate station, located near the event, saw around 60,000 passengers.
The metro system has seen steady growth this year, with August reaching a record 95.4 lakh commuters. This growth indicates the increasing role of Chennai Metro in alleviating traffic congestion and promoting sustainable urban transport. As metro ridership increases, it contributes to reducing pollution and dependence on private vehicles, supporting Chennai’s broader environmental goals. For residents, the metro offers a reliable, efficient, and affordable alternative to road travel, solidifying its position as a key part of the city’s sustainable transport infrastructure.
