Kolkata Metro to launch "no booking counter stations" on Purple and Orange lines

Starting August 1, 2024, the Kolkata Metro will introduce a new pilot project, "no booking counter stations," on the Purple and Orange lines. This initiative, announced by Kausik Mitra, Chief Public Relations Officer of Metro Railway, aims to modernize operations at stations with low passenger traffic.

The pilot project will begin with three stations: Taratala and Sakherbazar on the Purple Line, and Kavi Sukanta on the Orange Line. Taratala station sees an average of only 70 passengers daily, while Kavi Sukanta and Sakherbazar have daily footfalls of about 220 and 55 passengers, respectively. Due to this low turnout, these stations were chosen for the "no booking counter stations" project.

From August 1, booking counters at these stations will be closed for token issuance, new Smart Card purchases, and Smart Card recharges. Instead, passengers will use Automatic Smart Card Recharge Machines (ASCRM) for all transactions. Each station will have two ASCRM units, which are already installed.

These machines will allow passengers to acquire tokens, Smart Cards, and QR code-based tickets, with the convenience of UPI payment methods. The Metro Railway Authorities believe this automated system will enhance the commuting experience by offering a more user-friendly and efficient alternative to traditional booking counters.

The authorities will closely monitor passenger responses and collect feedback over the next six months to evaluate the effectiveness of the new system and make necessary adjustments based on user experiences.