The Chennai Railway Division has taken a significant step towards enhancing commuter convenience by launching QR code-enabled payments at all railway station counters. This initiative is part of the broader digitalisation efforts under the Central government’s Digital India campaign, aimed at promoting cashless transactions. The QR code system complements the existing Unreserved Ticketing System (UTS) application and automatic ticket vending machines (ATVMs), which were introduced to reduce congestion and streamline the ticketing process.
A. Elumalai, Public Relations Officer of the Chennai Division, stated that the new QR code system would simplify payments for both suburban and long-distance train passengers, reducing the need for cash transactions. With Chennai’s railway network handling an average of 15 lakh passengers daily, this move is expected to ease pressure on ticketing counters, especially during peak hours. To ensure smooth adoption, volunteers have been deployed at major stations to assist commuters, particularly senior citizens, in using the new system.
Data from the Southern Railway shows a growing trend towards digital ticketing. From April to September this year, 38 crore passengers booked 12.94 crore digital tickets, slightly down from 13 crore tickets booked in the same period last year. The introduction of QR payments is part of a larger strategy to increase digital payments. Additionally, the UTS app, available on Android and iOS, has gained popularity, offering a 3% bonus for recharges, further incentivising digital adoption.
From a sustainability angle, the QR code initiative marks a positive shift in reducing paper usage and aligning with eco-friendly goals. Digital transactions not only save paper but also minimise the need for physical infrastructure for cash handling, thereby lowering the carbon footprint. This digital transition supports the government’s broader push towards sustainable urban development by promoting greener, more efficient public transport systems.
Civic planners in Chennai, including the Chennai Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (CUMTA), are working to integrate ticketing systems across different public transport modes. Plans are underway to introduce a Journey Planner-cum-Integrated Ticketing system that will cover the Metro Rail, Southern Railway, and Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) buses. This common mobility card initiative, expected to be launched by early next year, will make commuting across Chennai easier and more seamless, enhancing last-mile connectivity.
