Mobility card now mandatory for concessional travel on MSRTC buses

Different categories will receive cards linked to their specific official identities. Students will get cards mapped to their Saral numbers, while senior citizens and women will have Aadhaar-linked cards. Persons with disabilities will be issued cards connected to their UDID numbers. Freedom fighters, journalists, and state awardees can obtain their cards from divisional headquarters.

Registration process

The state transport department has appointed over 3,000 authorised agents to assist passengers, particularly senior citizens and women, with the registration process. The enrollment will be conducted at bus depots and stations, making it accessible to rural passengers who often travel long distances for documentation and other work.

The card costs Rs 199, including GST. Passengers submitting an old smart card can get the new one for Rs 149. A minimum wallet balance of Rs 100 is required, with top-ups available in multiples of Rs 50 through ETIM machines, authorised websites, mobile apps, and appointed agents.

Schemes covered

The NCMC will apply to several existing schemes: 50 per cent discount for women under Mahila Samman Scheme, 50 per cent discount for passengers aged 65-75, free travel for senior citizens above 75 under Amrut Senior Citizen Scheme, monthly passes at 66.67 per cent discount for school students, and free passes for girl students up to Class 12 under Punyashlok Ahilyabai Holkar Scheme.

Freedom fighters and one companion, accredited journalists, and recipients of state-level awards can also travel free. A 30 per cent discount is available for socially disadvantaged groups, while monthly and quarterly pass holders get 50 per cent off.

Sarnaik said the move would eliminate issues like a shortage of change and bring transparency to financial transactions. “This gives a digital touch to the traditional travel system, making journeys easier and safer for passengers,” he added.

Speaking to The Indian Express, Arun Siya, Divisional Controller, Pune, said kiosks will be set up at depots from this week, and NCMC card issuance will begin shortly.

“For the time being, passengers can avail themselves of concessions using their existing cards. I urge all the beneficiaries to obtain the NCMC card for hassle-free travel,” he said.

However, Ranjit Gadgil, programme director of NGO Parisar, pointed out possible challenges for those unfamiliar with digital technology. “Introducing smart cards is welcome, but the administration must acknowledge the digital divide. Help desks must proactively assist the tech illiterate, particularly senior citizens and those from rural areas, during the transition. Eligible beneficiaries must be given alternative options till the complete shift takes place,” he said.