technologyIndia·2026-06-05
Smart Cards, UPI & QR Tickets: How to Pay for Metro in Every Indian City
A complete guide to payment methods across all Indian metro systems — from DMRC Smart Cards to UPI-based QR tickets.
Indian metro systems have dramatically upgraded their ticketing infrastructure. Here's a comprehensive guide to payment options across all major metro networks.
Payment methods by city:
Delhi Metro (DMRC):
•DMRC Smart Card (contactless)
•Token (for single journey)
•QR-based UPI tickets via WhatsApp, Paytm, PhonePe
•NCMC (National Common Mobility Card)
Mumbai Metro (MMRDA):
•One Mumbai Card (works across all lines)
•Token
•UPI QR codes at kiosks
Kolkata Metro:
•Kolkata Metro Smart Card
•Token
•UPI QR (newer stations)
Bengaluru (Namma Metro):
•Namma Metro Travel Card
•Token
•NCMC (accepted on newer sections)
Hyderabad Metro:
•Hyderabad Metro Travel Card
•Token
•Online QR-based passes
Chennai Metro:
•Chennai Metro Smart Card
•Token
•UPI QR at select stations
National Common Mobility Card (NCMC): The NCMC (also called 'One Nation One Card') is being rolled out across all Indian metro systems, allowing a single card to work across different cities' transit systems.
Recommendation: For frequent commuters, always opt for a city-specific smart card or NCMC — you save 10–15% on every journey.
Tags
metro smart cardUPI metroNCMCmetro paymentQR ticket
Note: This article is for informational purposes. MetroWala recommends verifying all metro information with official operators before travel. Metro networks are subject to service changes.