Kolkata Metro App: Freedom from Metro Queues! Book Tickets from Home and Get Fare Discounts – Complete Guide
Kolkata Metro App: Kolkata Metro has significantly advanced technologically to make commuting smoother and more convenient for passengers. While older stations still have counter systems, new routes primarily use Ticket Vending Machines (TVM). However, during peak hours, long queues are common even at these machines. To solve this issue, the Metro Railway authorities have introduced the ‘Amar Kolkata Metro’ app. With this app on your smartphone, you can book tickets instantly from the comfort of your home. Moreover, booking via the app offers a special discount on fares compared to counter tickets.
Below is a detailed step-by-step guide on how to use the app for booking tickets and entering stations.
Initial Setup for Using the App
To avail of the online ticketing facility, you first need to install the official app and complete the registration process.
- Download: Search for and install the ‘Amar Kolkata Metro’ app from the Google Play Store.
- Registration: Open the app and go to the ‘New User Sign Up Here’ option. Enter your name, mobile number, and a secret MPIN of your choice.
- Verification: After clicking ‘Sign Up’, you will receive a 6-digit OTP on your mobile number. Enter it in the app and click ‘Verify’ to successfully create your account.
Ticket Booking and Fare Discounts
Once your account is ready, booking a ticket is very simple. Follow the steps below:
- Log in to the app using your phone number and the MPIN you created.
- Select the ‘Book Ticket’ option from the dashboard.
- Select your starting station (Source) and the station where you will get off (Destination).
- Choose the number of passengers. Remember, you can book for a maximum of 4 passengers on a single ticket from one smartphone.
- Click on ‘Check Route & Train Time’ to view the fare and travel time.
Special Benefit: One of the major advantages of using the app is the fare discount. A ticket that costs ₹10 at the counter is available for ₹9.50 on the app. Similarly, a ₹5 ticket costs ₹4.75. This is a profitable option for regular commuters.
Payment Gateway Selection
To confirm the ticket, you need to make an online payment.
- You will see payment gateway options like HDFC in the app. This does not mean you need an account with that specific bank; it is merely a processing medium.
- Select any gateway and click on ‘Book Ticket’.
- Complete the payment using your preferred method, such as UPI (PhonePe, Google Pay), Debit Card, or Credit Card.
Station Entry and Scanning Procedure
Upon successful payment, a digital ticket or QR code will be generated on your screen. It is important to use it correctly when entering the station:
- Click on the hand icon or QR icon on the app screen to generate the code.
- Hold your mobile screen in front of the scanner at the metro station gate.
- Caution: Do not touch the mobile to the scanner or hold it too far away. Maintaining a distance of approximately 8 to 9 inches allows the scanner to read the code quickly and open the gate.
Important Rules for Passengers
It is helpful to know some limitations and rules regarding online ticket usage:
- Cancellation: Once a ticket is booked, it cannot be cancelled, and the amount is non-refundable.
- Location: You do not need to be present at the station to book a ticket. You can book tickets in advance from your home, office, or anywhere else.
By embracing this technology, you can save time and free yourself from the hassle of standing in long queues.
