AGS Transact Technologies Introduces Instant NCMC Cards at Chennai Metro Stations

AGS Transact Technologies Limited has announced a significant enhancement to Chennai Metro’s commuting experience by launching its digital payment platform and non-bank prepaid payment instrument (PPI) ‘Ongo’.

This initiative marks a milestone in transit convenience by introducing instant National Common Mobility Cards (NCMC). The NCMC cards, which facilitate seamless travel across various modes of transportation, including metros, buses, and ferries, will now be available through a streamlined issuance process, thanks to the new partnership with Chennai Metro Rail Corporation (CMRL).

The key feature of this initiative is the industry-first, instant card issuance process. Unique card dispensers installed at select Chennai Metro stations will enable commuters to obtain ready-to-use NCMC cards immediately.

This innovative approach eliminates the need for full Know Your Customer (KYC) procedures, which align with the latest RBI guidelines, thus promising a more efficient and user-friendly commute experience. AGS Transact Technologies aims to accelerate the adoption of NCMCs across the country by simplifying the onboarding process.

Revenue for AGS Transact Technologies will be generated through issuance fees, interchange fees on transactions, and float income. The company’s strategic plan includes expanding the issuance of these NCMC cards to additional metro stations in Chennai and eventually to other cities, supporting its goal to grow its digital payments and card issuance businesses.

India’s metro systems collectively serve about 10 million passengers daily, with projections suggesting this figure could rise to 12.5 million soon. Chennai Metro, currently one of the twelve NCMC-enabled metro systems, recorded a peak monthly ridership of over 95 lakhs in July 2024, alongside more than 35 lakh closed-loop metro card users. The NCMC provides a unified payment solution that integrates various transport modes, parking, and toll payments, enhancing the overall commuting experience.

The instant NCMC cards are priced at ₹100 and can be purchased through the new card dispensers using UPI payments. Each card comes preloaded with ₹50. Commuters can top up their cards with a maximum balance of ₹3,000 at metro station ticket counters. Additionally, the cards can be upgraded to a full KYC version, allowing for greater flexibility, including in-store and online payments.

Previously, Ongo had introduced open-loop co-branded RuPay prepaid cards with NCMC features for a leading FMCG conglomerate. AGS Transact Technologies also collaborates with RBL Bank to issue NCMCs for Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation, further expanding its footprint in the Indian transit sector.

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