Chennai Metro rail onboards ONDC, launches end-to-end ticketing

Chennai Metro rail passengers can now book tickets via ONDC network

Chennai Metro passengers can now buy tickets through the ONDC network.

In a statement on February 2, Chennai Metro Rail Ltd (CMRL) said that it is the first Metro rail service in India to join the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC).

"Passengers can effortlessly purchase single journey and return journey tickets for the Chennai Metro through buyer apps on the ONDC Network—Rapido, Namma Yatri, and redBus. Additionally, Google Maps and PhonePe will soon offer these services, enhancing customer convenience and choice. ONDC buyer apps will also immediately offer Metro ticketing for any Metro going live on the ONDC network," said CMRL.

Moneycontrol had reported on how ONDC looks to woo Metro rail operators and enable end-to-end digital booking for all urban commutes.

Also, ONDC looks to woo Metro rail operators, enable end-to-end digital booking for all urban commute

"The integration of Metro services on the ONDC Network heralds a new era in digital mobility, promising seamless access to public transport across major cities. Following Chennai, Kochi Metro, Kanpur Metro, Pune Metro, and other metro services are poised to join the network, making urban transit more accessible and efficient for millions of commuters," it added.

MA Siddique, MD of CMRL, said, “By partnering with ONDC, CMRL is now completely opening up access to its ticketing application service, allowing a wide range of app developers to integrate their apps with the CMRL ticketing system. Surely, other Metro rail companies, metropolitan transport companies, and paratransit operators would soon connect to the open network. We look forward to fostering innovation in integrated and multimodal transit solutions as more app developers join the open network, which presents immense value by obviating the need to develop a separate interface with each transit system operator.”

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T Koshy, MD & CEO, ONDC, said, “At ONDC, we believe in embracing innovation. As Chennai Metro joins the ONDC, it is not just a milestone but rather a bold stride towards revolutionising mass transit. This isn't merely about ticketing; it's about unlocking the full spectrum of possibilities for commuters. From multimodal integration to a seamless blend of ancillary services, ONDC is all set to redefine mobility."

"This initiative not only simplifies the ticket purchasing process but also paves the way for a holistic, multimodal transportation experience. With both metro and other transport modes available on the ONDC Network, users can enjoy a seamless journey combining different modes of transport such as first mile (auto), middle mile (Metro), and last mile (auto), among others. For example, a daily commute could include booking a bike, Metro, and an auto ride within a single app," it said.

"In addition, the network is built to support innovative bundling. Ancillary services like shopping for groceries and necessities can be timed during the commute for convenience. As we move forward, ONDC looks forward to welcoming more Metros and buyer apps on the Network, ensuring that the future of urban mobility is inclusive, accessible, and innovative", it adds.

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