In a significant move to curb financial losses and modernize its operations, the Jaipur Metro has decided to phase out its physical smart token system and transition to a QR code-based ticketing system. This decision comes after the metro authority suffered substantial losses, with a staggering 80,000 tokens lost or damaged, resulting in a financial blow worth crores of rupees.
The High Cost of Lost Tokens
The scale of the problem was highlighted in a report from March 29, 2024, which revealed that commuters were walking away with 100-150 smart tokens every day. By March 2024, the cumulative number of tokens damaged or lost had reached 79,156. While these tokens become invalid once a passenger exits a station, each token's production cost of Rs 22 meant the losses weighed heavily on the metro's finances.
Officials identified two primary reasons for the disappearance of tokens. The first is tailgating, where a passenger buys a ticket for the lowest fare (Rs 6) but travels a longer distance that requires a higher fare (Rs 12). The second involves passengers purchasing an extra Rs 6 token as a souvenir and taking it outside the station after their journey. Although a fine of Rs 50 plus the maximum fare of Rs 22 (totaling Rs 72) is imposed on passengers caught with misplaced tokens, the number of apprehensions is far lower than the number of tokens lost.
Embracing the QR Code Revolution
To tackle this issue head-on, Jaipur Metro officials announced on a Saturday that they are introducing a new ticketing system. "Besides tokens, we are also issuing paper tickets with QR codes. Passengers need to scan the codes at the entry gates to platforms. The system is cost-effective and convenient. Soon, we will switch over entirely to a QR code ticketing system," stated a metro official.
The new system has already undergone successful experiments in the past few months. The immediate step is the introduction of paper tickets embedded with QR codes, which passengers will scan at automated gates. Officials emphasized that the cost of these paper tickets is negligible compared to the smart tokens, leading to immediate savings.
The Future is Paperless
Looking ahead, the metro is planning an even more advanced, paperless ticketing system. Officials confirmed that talks are ongoing with private companies to implement a solution where passengers can provide their mobile numbers at ticket counters and receive QR codes directly via WhatsApp. "In future, under the paperless system, passengers will also be able to purchase metro tickets online," another official added.
This shift is expected to drastically reduce operational costs and improve passenger convenience. The move from costly, losable tokens to digital QR codes represents a crucial step towards a more efficient and sustainable urban transit system for the Pink City.
