Bengaluru Metro set to offer seamless travel booking via ONDC

Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) is preparing to join the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) platform by May, aiming to streamline urban travel for Metro users. With this integration, commuters will soon be able to plan and book complete journeys, including Metro rides, cab services, auto rickshaws, and buses through popular mobility apps like Rapido, Namma Yatri and RedBus.

Also Read: Bengaluru metro phase 3 faces delay amid funding and design challenges

This new system will enable passengers to book Metro tickets, recharge smart cards, and access last-mile transportation options using a single digital platform. Metro ticketing will also be available directly through Google Maps, which already provides live Metro timings. The integration is being facilitated by a technology firm that is working on incorporating QR ticketing into the ONDC platform. Initially, ONDC features will be introduced, with Bharat Bill Pay System (BBPS) integration to follow at a later stage.

While QR-code ticket booking is already available through WhatsApp, it currently lacks the capability for booking end-to-end transport solutions. Other Metro systems in cities like Chennai and Kochi have already adopted ONDC. Bengaluru Metro, which spans 76 kilometers, is the second-largest in India and serves approximately 8 lakh passengers daily. Among these users, 49% rely on smart cards, 25% use QR tickets, and 26% use tokens.