INVC NEWS
New Delhi – The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has recently phased out the issuance of smart cards, leaving many passengers grappling with new payment methods. Instead of the widely used smart cards, commuters are now being provided with the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC). While the NCMC card is intended to streamline fare payments across multiple transportation modes, its introduction has raised concerns and confusion among frequent Delhi Metro passengers. Let’s delve into the impact of this transition, what it means for passengers, and how the new system operates.
Smart Cards Discontinued at Delhi Metro Stations
Until recently, passengers heavily relied on the Delhi Metro smart cards, a convenient and widely accepted mode of payment for metro journeys. However, due to a shift in strategy, the smart card is no longer available at customer care counters across metro stations. The NCMC card, which is touted as a multi-functional payment card, has replaced the smart card, catching many regular commuters by surprise.
Reports from various stations indicate that DMRC employees are offering NCMC cards in place of the now-unavailable smart cards. Many passengers, unfamiliar with the NCMC card, are finding the sudden shift inconvenient.
Challenges Faced by Commuters with the NCMC Card
A major challenge reported by commuters is the recharging process for the NCMC card. Unlike the previous smart card, the NCMC card cannot be recharged at ticket vending machines (TVMs), which were a quick and convenient method for topping up smart cards. The only available method for recharging the NCMC card, as of now, is through the Airtel Thanks app. This limited option is a significant inconvenience, especially for passengers who are either not familiar with mobile apps or do not use Airtel’s services.
Further compounding the problem is the incompatibility of the NCMC card with other UPI apps, which means that commuters cannot use widely accepted payment platforms like Google Pay or Paytm to recharge their cards. In addition, there are no validation machines installed across metro stations to ensure successful recharges, leaving many commuters uncertain if their transactions have been completed properly.
Minimum Recharge Amount: Another Concern
At the customer care centers of metro stations, a minimum recharge of ₹200 is enforced for the NCMC card. This policy poses additional challenges for passengers who may not need such a large top-up, particularly for those who travel infrequently or only require smaller fare payments. It also creates difficulties for those without smartphones or who rely on cash-based transactions.
DMRC’s Response and Clarifications
In response to the concerns and confusion among passengers, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation has made efforts to address the situation. According to DMRC officials, the NCMC card offers greater versatility than the traditional smart card. This card can be used not only on the Delhi Metro but also for other services like parking, toll booths, and even in retail outlets for shopping. The NCMC is a multi-utility card, which is why it has been promoted as an upgrade to the smart card system.
DMRC has also clarified that the traditional smart cards have not been completely withdrawn and can still be issued upon special requests by passengers. However, it remains unclear how many stations are honoring such requests, and anecdotal reports suggest that at many stations, passengers are being strongly urged to adopt the NCMC instead.
Types of National Common Mobility Cards (NCMC)
DMRC has outlined that there are three main types of NCMC cards, each with its own set of features:
- Prepaid Card: This functions like a debit card, where commuters can load funds into the card and use it across multiple platforms including the metro, parking lots, and retail outlets.
- Debit Card Integration: For those with pre-existing debit cards, NCMC functionality can be embedded, allowing them to use their bank-issued cards for metro travel.
- Credit Card Features: Certain NCMC cards also offer credit card functionality, further enhancing the utility of the card for both travel and everyday expenses.
The versatility of these NCMC cards, while a notable upgrade in theory, has faced a rocky implementation, with passengers still adjusting to the changes.
Recharging Difficulties and Lack of Information
One of the most pressing concerns among passengers is the lack of information regarding how to recharge the NCMC card. The current reliance on the Airtel Thanks app for recharges is inconvenient for those who do not have access to this app or prefer using other payment methods. Moreover, the absence of validation machines in stations makes it impossible for commuters to verify the status of their top-ups, which has led to widespread dissatisfaction.
This situation is further aggravated by the fact that UPI recharges, a popular method for digital payments in India, are not supported for the NCMC card. With millions of users accustomed to UPI-based transactions, the exclusion of this option has frustrated many commuters who are accustomed to the ease and convenience of these platforms.
Implications for Non-Smartphone Users
The introduction of the NCMC card has also sparked concerns among non-smartphone users. Since the recharge process requires access to the Airtel Thanks app, individuals who do not own a smartphone are left with few options.
Future Integration with Other Modes of Transport
Despite these challenges, the DMRC has emphasized the long-term benefits of adopting the NCMC card. The card is designed to be interoperable across multiple modes of transportation. This includes regional rail networks, such as the upcoming Ghaziabad-Meerut Regional Rapid Rail, as well as future expansions of the Delhi Metro network.
The NCMC card is positioned as a national standard for fare payments across India, which means that passengers will eventually be able to use the same card for travel on different public transport systems in various cities, making it a one-stop solution for mobility.
