Datamatics secures Pune Metro Line 3 fare collection contract, enhancing urban transit

Datamatics Global Services Limited has been awarded the contract to implement a state-of-the-art automatic fare collection system for Pune Metro Line 3. The company will design, supply, install, test, commission, and integrate its advanced fare collection technology across 23 stations along the 23-kilometre fully elevated corridor connecting Hinjewadi and Civil Court (Shivaji Nagar).

This strategic development aligns with Pune’s growing demand for a modernized, seamless transit experience. The implementation of Datamatics’ multi-modal payment system will introduce contactless ticketing solutions, including EMV open-loop cards and QR-based ticketing, ensuring faster, more efficient passenger movement.

What does this contract mean for Pune Metro’s expansion?

The Pune Metro Line 3 project is being executed under a public-private partnership (PPP) model by the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA). It is spearheaded by a joint venture between TRIL Urban Transport Private Limited and Siemens Project Ventures GmbH, a subsidiary of Siemens Financial Services. The project operates on a Design, Build, Finance, Operate & Transfer (DBFOT) basis for a 35-year tenure.

As Pune’s metro network expands, integrating an efficient fare collection technology is critical to streamlining urban mobility. The introduction of Datamatics’ automated fare collection (AFC) system will enhance revenue management, reduce operational inefficiencies, and support Pune’s transition toward smart mobility solutions.

How will automated fare collection benefit commuters and operators?

The adoption of Datamatics’ automatic fare collection system is expected to improve passenger flow management while reducing dependence on manual ticketing. The system is designed to optimize operational efficiency by providing real-time traffic and revenue data. This will significantly minimize fraud risks and ensure better financial oversight for metro authorities.

A major highlight of the system is its compatibility with the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) standard, which allows commuters to use a unified payment solution across different transport networks. This aligns with the National Common Mobility Mission’s vision of enabling an interoperable, cashless transit ecosystem that connects various urban transit modes, making travel seamless for Pune’s growing commuter base.

Bala Gopalakrishnan, President & Head of Digital Technologies at Datamatics, emphasized the commuter-focused approach of the AFC system, stating,

“Our next-generation AI-enabled AFC solution is built to enhance commuter convenience. We are committed to delivering the project on schedule and ensuring long-term operational efficiency.”

By integrating contactless payment solutions, the AFC system will reduce ticketing wait times, improve accessibility, and ensure a smoother passenger experience. The technology is designed to scale with future advancements, ensuring Pune Metro remains at the forefront of urban transit innovation.

Why is Datamatics a leader in fare collection technology?

With a robust track record spanning over 25 years, Datamatics has delivered fare collection technology for major global transit networks in cities such as London, Hong Kong, Dubai, and Melbourne. The company has cemented its position as a leader in automated fare collection, leveraging AI-driven solutions and real-time analytics to enhance ticketing efficiency.

Rahul Kanodia, Vice Chairman and CEO of Datamatics, highlighted the company’s industry expertise, stating,

“Datamatics is the only Indian company with a proven AFC solution. Our expertise has been recognized globally, and we take pride in contributing to India’s metro infrastructure. Having worked on projects such as Lucknow Metro, Mumbai Metro, Kolkata Metro, and Delhi-Meerut RRTS, we are thrilled to add Pune Metro to our portfolio.”

Datamatics’ fare collection technology is part of its broader digital solutions portfolio, which includes robotic process automation, intelligent document processing, and data-driven business intelligence. These innovations are transforming urban mobility by introducing smarter, automated solutions to optimize transit operations.

What does this project mean for the future of urban transit in India?

The successful deployment of an AI-driven automatic fare collection system in Pune Metro Line 3 marks a crucial step toward modernizing India’s metro networks. As Indian cities expand, the demand for efficient, technology-driven transit solutions continues to grow. The introduction of a multi-modal payment system will not only improve the commuter experience but also set a benchmark for other metro projects nationwide.

Datamatics’ partnership with Pune Metro underscores its commitment to digital transformation in public transportation. By prioritizing smart, automated fare collection solutions, the company is contributing to India’s vision of building world-class metro infrastructure that meets global standards.

As Pune Metro Line 3 moves forward with its phased implementation, the impact of Datamatics’ AFC system will be closely watched. Its success could influence similar deployments across other metro corridors, further accelerating India’s urban mobility evolution.