Namma Metro introduces QR code ticket-vending machines at Byappanahalli station

To enhance commuter convenience and reduce congestion at the ticket counter, the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has introduced QR code-enabled ticket vending machines at Byappanahalli metro station. These self-service kiosks, designed to dispense paper tickets embedded with QR codes, aim to streamline the ticketing process for daily metro users.

To enhance commuter convenience and reduce congestion at the ticket counter, the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has introduced QR code-enabled ticket vending machines at Byappanahalli metro station. These self-service kiosks, designed to dispense paper tickets embedded with QR codes, aim to streamline the ticketing process for daily metro users.

The move follows the successful pilot launch of similar machines at M.G. Road and Cubbon Park stations on the Purple Line. Now, two such compact green-coloured machines have been installed at Byappanahalli. According to a BMRCL official, the entire process of purchasing a QR code ticket takes less than a minute, offering a swift alternative to the conventional token system.

“These kiosks are introduced to help commuters bypass the long queues at manual ticket counters,” the official said. “They are user-friendly, multilingual, and designed for self-operation. However, to assist first-time users or those needing help, a contractor-appointed staff member is stationed nearby.”

Each kiosk prints out a paper ticket containing a QR code that can be scanned at the Automatic Fare Collection (AFC) gates. “The earlier pilot at M.G. Road and Cubbon Park stations saw the deployment of six and eight machines respectively. Their utility was especially evident during large-scale events like IPL matches, when scores of passengers preferred using the vending machines over standing in lengthy queues,” official added.

On average, about 70 to 80 commuters makeing use of these machines daily at the pilot stations. Anusha Rao, a regular metro commuter, welcomed the development, saying, “These QR machines are incredibly convenient. I no longer have to wait behind a long line during peak hours, especially when I’m in a hurry. The process is fast, and the interface is simple to understand. It’s a good step forward in Bengaluru where the metro is always crowded.”

Another commuter, Ramesh K., who works in Indiranagar, said, “This is a much-needed upgrade. I used the QR vending machine during peak hours whenever I took the metro which made me avoid wasting time in a massive queue. It’s great to see BMRCL finally adopting digital solutions that make our commute easier. I hope they expand this to more stations soon.”

A BMRCL official said that they are planning to roll out similar vending machines at other high-footfall stations in the near future.