Pune: Automatic fare collection will form the backbone of the smart ticketing ecosystem being introduced on Puneri Metro Line 3, offering commuters a range of digital and physical ticketing options for a seamless travel experience across Pune’s expanding metro network.
The state-of-the-art Automatic Fare Collection system will support the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC), mobile app-based ticketing, WhatsApp QR tickets, Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs) and manual ticketing counters at every station, allowing passengers to choose the mode of ticketing most convenient for them.
Advanced Automatic Fare Collection system for faster passenger movement
The advanced Automatic Fare Collection (AFC) system has been designed to facilitate faster and more efficient passenger movement across Metro Line 3 stations.
AFC gates are already functional at the 12 stations that will become operational in the first phase and will subsequently be available at all stations on Line 3. Each station will have five AFC gates, including:
- Two entry gates
- Two exit gates
- One wider gate dedicated for differently abled passengers
The Automatic Fare Collection infrastructure is equipped with intelligent queue management features to regulate passenger flow during peak hours, minimise congestion and improve operational efficiency.
NCMC to enable nationwide metro travel
In line with the Government of India’s ‘One Nation One Card’ initiative, Puneri Metro Line 3 will support the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) from the commencement of passenger services.
The interoperable card will enable commuters to travel not only on Metro Line 3 but also on Pune Metro Lines 1 and 2, as well as metro systems across the country using a single card.
The Automatic Fare Collection system has been built to ensure interoperability across different metro networks, enabling a unified travel experience for passengers.
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Mobile app integration across the Pune Metro network
The corridor will also offer mobile app-based ticketing through the existing Pune Metro app.
Initially, passengers will have separate booking options for the existing Maha Metro lines and Line 3. After the integration of Metro Line 3 with Metro Lines 1 and 2 at District Court station is completed, commuters will be able to book seamless end-to-end journeys across the entire Pune Metro network through the same platform.
The integrated Automatic Fare Collection architecture will support this network-wide ticketing integration.
WhatsApp QR tickets and accessible TVMs
To further enhance convenience, passengers will be able to generate QR-based travel tickets directly through WhatsApp, eliminating the need to stand in queues at ticket counters.
Those preferring conventional ticketing can purchase tickets through Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs) or manual ticket counters available at every station.
The TVMs have been installed at heights that comply with global accessibility standards, making them easily usable by differently abled passengers. This accessibility-focused approach has also been incorporated into the Automatic Fare Collection system design.
Multiple payment options across stations
Puneri Metro Line 3 will support multiple payment modes, including:
- Cash
- Unified Payments Interface (UPI)
- Debit cards
Other digital payment methods
Every station will also be equipped with QR and card scanning devices that enable both passengers and station staff to quickly validate tickets and access journey details, ensuring smooth and secure travel through the Automatic Fare Collection network.
“Puneri Metro Line 3 has been planned with a strong emphasis on technology, accessibility and commuter convenience. The smart ticketing ecosystem has been designed to offer multiple ticketing options while ensuring smooth passenger movement and inclusive access across stations.
Our objective is to provide commuters with a reliable, efficient and user-friendly travel experience through technology-driven solutions,” said an official spokesperson of Puneri Metro Line 3.
Future-ready integrated ticketing infrastructure
The integrated ticketing infrastructure is a key component of the passenger experience on Puneri Metro Line 3.
By combining interoperable payment systems, contactless ticketing, accessible station facilities and multiple ticketing channels from the outset, the Automatic Fare Collection ecosystem aims to deliver a seamless, efficient and future-ready commuting experience while supporting integration with Pune’s expanding metro network.
