The Kolkata Metro, a trusted mode of transport for over four decades, continues to see a surge in ridership and a growing shift toward digital payment methods. In the last five months, from July to November 2024, Metro Railway has carried over 9.3 crore passengers, reflecting its increasing popularity among commuters in Kolkata and nearby districts.
Record-Breaking Passenger Numbers
During this period, the Blue Line emerged as the busiest, carrying 8 crore passengers. Green Line-1 and Green Line-2 recorded 61 lakh and 64 lakh passengers, respectively. Meanwhile, the newer Orange Line and Purple Line saw 2.7 lakh and 79,000 passengers, showcasing the expanding network’s growing utility.
In tandem with rising ridership, Metro users are increasingly opting for digital payment methods such as UPI, net banking, and debit/credit cards. These methods are being used to purchase tokens, recharge Smart Cards, and facilitate seamless transactions.
Digital payment facilities have been integrated into Automatic Smart Card Recharge Machines (ASCRM) and ticket counters across all metro lines, including the Blue, Green, Orange, and Purple Lines. This system eliminates the need for exact cash payments, making the ticketing process faster and more user-friendly.
Passengers have shown enthusiasm for the new ticketing system, which offers convenience and saves time. According to recent data, over 25.51% of Kolkata Metro’s total earnings between July and November 2024 have come through digital payment methods, with this trend steadily rising.
P. Uday Kumar Reddy, General Manager of Metro Railway, expressed gratitude to the people of Kolkata and adjoining areas for their continued trust in the Metro. He noted that the digital payment initiative aligns with the goal of providing a modern, efficient, and smart ticketing system to commuters.