The Mumbai Metro One Pvt Ltd (MMOPL) has decided to ditch plastic tokens in its metro systems in order to avoid the spread of the coronavirus. Recently, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) decided to undertake similar steps.
It’s worth noting that the MMOPL had already started switching from plastic tokens to paper-based QR tickets in January this year. However, the authorities also said at the time that the entire Metro One infrastructure will switch to paper QR tickets by March. But the nationwide lockdown has somewhat delayed those plans.
While Mumbai is in no hurry to start metro services yet, the MMOPL is planning this for when public transportation is restarted in the city. In addition to issuing paper tickets, the MMOPL said that they encourage users to access ticketing on their mobile phones to avoid any contact with a foreign surface.
Read Also - Metro 2A, Metro 7 Projects May Face A Three-Month Delay
“We will encourage commuters to use the mobile application and smart cards more to limit contact. There will be limited usage of paper tickets too”, a source quoted by the Hindustan Times said.
Additionally, the MMRDA (Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority) is reportedly pitching the idea of having a common application for users wherein all modes of public transport can be accessed. This app will reportedly allow users to pay for all their trips in advance, thus encouraging contactless ticketing on a broader spectrum.
A report by the ITDP India Programme provides a framework for the safe reopening of public transportation even in affected areas like Mumbai.
Parin Visariya, Senior Urban Development Associate at ITDP India Programme said - “Covid-19 provides Indian cities with an opportunity to transform their public transport services by improving user experience through technology, investing in public transport as a social good, reforming informal transit services, and promoting walking and cycling for shorter trips.
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