Pune Metro Line 3 to Offer Fully Integrated Smart Ticketing System with NCMC and WhatsApp QR Options
Commuters on Pune’s upcoming Metro Line 3, connecting Maan-Hinjawadi to Shivajinagar, can look forward to a hassle-free journey as officials announce a fully integrated, state-of-the-art ticketing system designed to eliminate long queues and streamline daily travel across the city.
The new Automatic Fare Collection (AFC) framework will feature a wide range of digital and physical ticketing choices right from day one. Passengers can choose from WhatsApp QR tickets, mobile app-based booking, National Common Mobility Cards (NCMC), Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs), or traditional manual counter tickets.
In line with the Central Government’s “One Nation One Card” vision, Line 3 will fully support NCMC cards upon launch. This allows commuters to use a single card not only for Puneri Metro Line 3, but also across Pune Metro Lines 1 and 2, as well as transit networks nationwide.
To keep traffic moving smoothly, five AFC gates are already installed and operational across the 12 stations scheduled for Phase 1 opening, including dedicated wide gates for differently-abled passengers. Equipped with intelligent queue management, these gates are built to handle peak-hour surges efficiently.
Digital booking will be accessible through the existing Pune Metro app. While Line 3 will initially feature a separate booking tab, full platform integration will take effect once the District Court interchange station opens, allowing seamless single-ticket journeys across the entire Pune Metro network.
For quick entry, commuters can generate QR tickets instantly via WhatsApp. Those using station TVMs will also benefit from accessibility-compliant design heights, while payment modes across all channels will accept UPI, debit cards, cash, and standard digital wallets.
“Our objective is to provide commuters with a reliable, efficient, and user-friendly travel experience through technology-driven solutions,” said an official spokesperson for Puneri Metro Line 3.
Vineet Gupta is the Founder and Managing Editor of PuneNow, where he oversees local news delivery and explores mindful living, parenting, and personal growth. An alumnus of the University of Wales, Vineet has travelled extensively and worked across hospitality, finance, and academia. Now based in Pune, his diverse global background informs his hyper-local perspective, helping the community find meaning, balance, and connection in everyday life.
