Chennai Metro commuters need to gear up for a major change starting August 1, as the Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) will discontinue recharges for old smart cards. Only the new Singara Chennai Card, aligned with the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) standards, will be accepted at all 41 metro stations.
Existing metro cards can still be used until the balance is exhausted. However, if the remaining balance falls below ₹50, commuters must surrender the old card at any metro ticket counter. They will receive the new Singara Chennai Card free of charge, with the balance and deposit transferred seamlessly.
Launched in April 2023, the Singara Chennai Card allows unified access to buses, metro trains, and toll booths—offering commuters a cashless, eco-friendly, and paperless journey. Designed under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs’ NCMC initiative, this card aims to simplify urban travel.
Digital ticketing options like mobile QR codes will continue, and help desks will be available to assist passengers through the transition.
This move positions Chennai Metro as a modern, integrated urban transport system and encourages green, tech-driven commuting.
