The National Capital Region Transport Corporation (NCRTC) and Airtel Payments Bank have joined forces to introduce co-branded National Common Mobility Cards (NCMC), aimed at streamlining travel for commuters.
Launched at NCRTC’s corporate office by Shalabh Goel, MD, NCRTC, and Ganesh Ananthanarayanan, Chief Operating Officer (COO), Airtel Payments Bank, the cards offer multiple payment options including debit, prepaid and Prepaid Payment Instruments for Mass Transit Solutions (PPI-MTS).
Exclusively issued by Airtel Payments Bank, the NCMC cards are designed to simplify travel across various modes of transport, such as metros, railways and buses, by offering a unified payment solution. This eliminates the need for multiple tickets or cards. The NCMC-enabled cards also extend their utility to everyday purchases, allowing users to shop, dine and make payments at various retail outlets.
Speaking in this regard, Shalabh Goel, MD, NCRTC, said, “NCRTC’s collaboration with Airtel Payments Bank to launch NCMC-enabled cards marks a significant step in our ongoing efforts for multi-modal-integration, ensuring seamless connectivity across the region. With this all-in-one card, commuters can travel conveniently across India’s first RRTS and other public transit systems, while also managing utility and retail payments. This initiative underscores our dedication to transform the daily commutes, and ultimately help improve the quality of life for people.”
The cards, equipped with tap-and-pay technology, enable quick and secure transactions at transit terminals and retail locations, enhancing both the speed and safety of payments. Airtel Payments Bank also offers a PPI-MTS prepaid card option, solely for transit payments, catering to a broader audience.
Commuters can purchase the co-branded NCMC cards at RRTS stations or via the Airtel Thanks app, ensuring accessibility for travellers on Namo Bharat trains and other transport systems across the country.
Ganesh Ananthanarayanan, COO, Airtel Payments Bank, said, “We are excited to partner with NCRTC in enhancing the digital payment ecosystem for public transportation. The co-branded NCMC-enabled cards provide passengers with a secure, contactless and comprehensive payment solution, not just for travel, but also for everyday transactions. This initiative is a step towards building a future-ready transport system.”