October 9, 2023: The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) on October 8 announced the expansion of its WhatsApp-based ticketing system. After a successful launch on the Airport Express Line in May this year, the DMRC has now extended this cutting-edge service to cover all lines in the Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR). It will also cover the Gurgaon Rapid Metro in collaboration with Meta and their authorised partner Pelocal Fintech.
With the introduction of this WhatsApp-based ticketing system, metro travellers now have the convenience of purchasing tickets with just a single click, from the comfort of their homes or workplaces.
“Recognising that purchasing tickets is a pivotal part of the overall commuting experience, the DMRC has introduced a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing the ease of booking tickets for all Delhi Metro travellers. The core principle guiding this program is the diversification of ticket procurement channels through various digital modes, including UPI, credit/debit cards, and more.
In recent times, the DMRC has rolled out multiple initiatives such as QR ticketing via the mobile app, ticket vending machines and PayTM/ PhonePe (on the Airport Line), all of which accept popular digital payment methods.
Commenting on this initiative, Vikas Kumar, managing director of the DMRC, said: “Providing metro commuters with the option to purchase metro tickets through a simple chat will significantly enhance their travel experience. WhatsApp is the preferred messaging platform for the majority of Indians, and buying a metro ticket will now be as easy as messaging a friend or family member. We are confident that this integration will encourage more commuters to choose the Delhi metro as their preferred mode of travel.”
Ravi Garg, director, business messaging, Meta in India, said, “Our goal is to simplify the transit experience for WhatsApp users, and this is another step in that direction. Every day, millions of commuters rely on the Delhi metro to reach their desired destinations, and we are thrilled to provide this ticketing experience within their WhatsApp chats.”
Key features of Delhi Metro WhatsApp ticketing service
- Up to 6 QR tickets can be generated by a user at a time.
- Tickets can be booked between 6 AM to 9 PM for all lines and from 4 AM to 11 PM for the Airport Line (Orange Line).
- Ticket cancellations are not allowed.
- A marginal convenience fee is applied to transactions made via credit/debit card while no convenience fee will be charged for UPI-based transactions.
How to use Delhi Metro WhatsApp ticketing service?
Passengers can now simply send a message with the text ‘Hi’ to +91 9650855800 on WhatsApp or scan the provided QR code to effortlessly purchase metro tickets using their smartphones across the whole network. This user-friendly WhatsApp chatbot is available in both English and Hindi language, catering to a wide range of metro riders. The service now extends its reach across the entire DMRC network covering all stations, including the Gurgaon Rapid Metro Corridor.
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