Kolkata Metro Introduces ‘No Booking Counter’ Stations

Kolkata Metro has embarked on a pioneering initiative by launching a pilot project to establish ‘No Booking Counter Stations’ along its Joka-Majerhat (Purple Line) and New Garia-Ruby More (Orange Line) corridors. This move is part of a broader strategy to streamline ticketing processes and enhance operational efficiency.

The initial phase of this project will encompass three stations Taratala and Sakherbazar on the Purple Line, and Kavi Sukanta on the Orange Line. The selection of these stations was driven by their respective passenger volumes, which align with the project’s objective to optimise service delivery in high-traffic areas. Under the new system, traditional booking counters for token and smart card issuance will be discontinued. Instead, passengers will be required to use Automatic Smart Card Recharge Machines (ASCRMs). These machines will handle the sale of tokens, QR code-based tickets, smart cards, and the recharging of existing smart cards. This shift is intended to reduce queues and speed up the ticketing process, leveraging technology to enhance user experience.

Current passenger statistics indicate that Taratala station serves approximately 70 passengers daily, Kavi Sukanta handles around 220 passengers, and Sakherbazar sees about 55 passengers each day. The Metro Railway authorities plan to closely monitor the impact of this new system, gathering passenger feedback and evaluating the system’s effectiveness over a six-month period.

This transition aligns with Kolkata Metro’s ongoing efforts to modernise its operations and improve service efficiency. By integrating automated ticketing solutions, the Kolkata Metro aims to offer a more convenient and streamlined travel experience, ultimately supporting its commitment to providing high-quality public transport services.