Chennai Metro To Fully Adopt Integrated NCMC Card From Aug 1: Here’s How To Get Yours

In a major move towards seamless urban mobility, Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) has announced that it will fully transition to the Singara Chennai Card, a National Common Mobility Card (NCMC), starting August 1, 2025. This integrated smart card system is expected to streamline travel not only across the metro network but eventually across buses, toll booths, and other transit systems.

Introduced in April 2023, the Singara Chennai Card will replace the existing CMRL Travel Card (contactless smart card) as the default payment method for frequent commuters. Starting August 1, top-up services for the older travel cards will be discontinued across all 41 metro stations. While commuters can continue using their current cards until the balance runs low, they must switch to the new card once the remaining value dips below Rs 50.

Here’s How to Get the Singara Chennai Card:

  • Continue using your existing CMRL Travel Card until the balance drops below Rs 50.
  • Once it does, visit any metro station counter and surrender the old card.
  • You will receive a Singara Chennai Card free of cost, with your remaining balance and refundable deposit transferred to the new card.
  • There is no additional charge for the new card during this transition period.


The CMRL clarified that QR code-based ticketing and other digital options will continue as usual, ensuring convenience for occasional metro users and tourists.

Commuters are encouraged to transition early and familiarize themselves with the new system to avoid last-minute inconvenience. For more information, users can contact CMRL customer service or follow the official CMRL social media pages.

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