Indore Metro commuters will be able to use the National Common Mobility Card from Thursday, with Madhya Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation Limited offering a 25% discount on eligible journeys and enabling the card to be used on other metro networks where the NCMC system is operational.
MPMRCL announced the launch in an official release on Tuesday. The NCMC is a rechargeable smart card that allows passengers to tap in and tap out at metro stations instead of purchasing a ticket for every journey. The system is expected to reduce queues at ticket counters and simplify repeat travel for passengers.
Commuters can obtain the card from ticket counters at all Indore Metro stations. The issuance fee is Rs 50 and is non-refundable. After issuance, passengers can load the card with the amount required for travel. Recharges will be available at station ticket counters, through ticket vending machines and on the MP Metro mobile app.
The existing 25% discount on eligible single journeys will continue for NCMC users. The discount applies to journeys with a fixed fare of more than Rs 20, according to the release. The additional discount does not apply to single-journey tickets priced at Rs 20.
The card is also designed to support travel beyond Indore. MPMRCL said it will work on metro networks across the country where the NCMC system has been implemented, allowing passengers to use one compatible payment instrument across participating systems. The release did not specify the number of metro networks currently covered by the arrangement.
MPMRCL has introduced the card alongside other digital ticketing options at Indore Metro stations. Ticket vending machines have been installed to allow passengers to purchase QR tickets without relying on ticket counters. Users can select the “Buy QR Ticket” option, choose their destination station, view the fare and pay through UPI after scanning the displayed QR code. The release said the process takes about 30 seconds.
Passengers can also book digital tickets through the MP Metro mobile app. The system supports cashless payments through UPI, QR codes and e-wallets, giving commuters multiple ways to access the network without buying a conventional paper or counter-issued ticket.
MPMRCL is running a promotional scheme until December 31 to encourage ridership and reduce the cost of metro travel. Under the scheme, single-journey tickets receive an additional 25% discount, return-journey tickets receive a total discount of 30% and group tickets receive a total discount of 35%. Group tickets are available for a minimum of two passengers.
The corporation has also announced an 8% to 15% bonus on e-wallet recharges, depending on the amount recharged. The NCMC launch, QR ticket machines, mobile-app booking and promotional fares will give commuters several ticketing and payment options as Indore Metro seeks to make station access and daily travel more convenient.
