Namma Metro has launched mobile QR-based unlimited travel passes from January 15, eliminating the ₹50 deposit on smart cards. The digital initiative aims to reduce queues and make metro travel easier for commuters and tourists.
Namma Metro, the backbone of Bengaluru’s urban transport network, has ushered in the New Year with a major digital upgrade aimed at enhancing passenger convenience. Strengthening its push towards a paperless and cashless travel system, the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has announced the launch of mobile QR-based unlimited travel passes, effective January 15, 2026.
This new facility is expected to significantly ease commuting for daily passengers and tourists alike, while reducing queues and dependence on physical travel cards.
Mobile QR Passes Launched as Part of Digital Push
Until now, commuters seeking unlimited metro travel had to rely on Contactless Smart Cards (CSC), which required a refundable security deposit of ₹50. In cases where cards were lost or damaged, passengers risked losing both the deposit and the active pass.
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With the introduction of mobile QR-based passes, BMRCL has eliminated this inconvenience. Passengers can now store the pass directly on their smartphones, making metro travel smoother, safer, and more efficient.
Key Features and Passenger Benefits
The newly introduced mobile QR passes offer several advantages over traditional smart cards:
- Multiple Validity Options: Passes are available with 1-day, 3-day, and 5-day unlimited travel validity.
- App-Based Purchase: Passengers can purchase the passes through the official Namma Metro mobile application.
- No Security Deposit: The ₹50 deposit applicable to smart cards is not required for mobile QR passes.
- Queue-Free Travel: Eliminates the need to stand in long queues for ticket purchase, recharge, or card refunds.
- Seamless Entry and Exit: QR codes can be scanned directly at Automatic Fare Collection (AFC) gates at metro stations.
Fare Chart Details:
| Pass Type | Smart Card Fare (incl. ₹50 deposit) | Mobile QR Pass Fare (no deposit) | Validity |
| 1-day pass | ₹300 | ₹250 | 1 day unlimited travel |
| 3-day pass | ₹600 | ₹550 | 3 days unlimited travel |
| 5-day pass | ₹900 | ₹850 | 5 days unlimited |
Move Towards Fully Digital Metro Travel
According to BMRCL officials, the initiative aims to reduce congestion at metro stations, particularly at ticket counters where card issuance and refunds often cause delays. By encouraging digital ticketing, the corporation hopes to streamline operations and enhance the overall passenger experience.
This latest step marks a significant milestone in BMRCL’s vision of creating a fully digital, efficient, and commuter-friendly metro system, offering particular relief to tourists and regular commuters who rely on Namma Metro for daily travel.
