Major Change Ahead in Punjab’s Metro Fare System
Key Highlights
- Punjab Mass Transit Authority launches TCash Card, a tap-and-pay travel card for metro systems.
- Token system to be discontinued by October 2025; TCash Card will replace it.
- Citizens can apply via the Etransit website or mobile app and collect cards at selected metro stations.
- QR code payments will be available for those without a TCash Card.
In a good step toward a cashless future for public transport, the Punjab Mass Transit Authority (PMA) has launched the TCash Card, a new tap-and-pay system set to replace tokens across all metro services.
What is the TCash Card?
The TCash Card is a new tap-and-pay metro card introduced by the Punjab Mass Transit Authority for use on the province’s metro systems. It allows passengers to load credits online through the Etransit website or mobile app and use it across all services, including Metro Bus, Speedo Bus, Orange Line Metro Train, and the Electro Bus (E-Bus), eliminating the need for a travel token that is used in the current setup.
Discontinuation of Tokens
The government has announced that the current token system will be phased out by October 2025. The token system will be replaced by the new TCash Card, which will serve as the primary method of payment for metro travel going forward.
For passengers who do not have a TCash Card, the PMA has introduced an alternative option: QR codes that can be scanned inside buses and trains to complete fare payments.