Travel across Chennai for just Re 1: City introduces cashless public transport offer

Chennai: In a major step towards promoting public transport and cashless mobility, commuters using the Chennai One mobile app can now purchase a single ticket for just Re 1 across Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) buses, Metro Rail, and suburban trains.

The special offer, which came into effect on Thursday morning, is expected to boost digital ticketing and encourage more people to use integrated public transport services in the city.

Launched on September 22 by Chief Minister MK Stalin, the Chennai One app serves as the city’s first comprehensive daily commute platform. It allows users to plan routes, track buses and trains in real-time, make digital payments, and even book autos or rental cars.

Since its launch, the app has seen rapid adoption, with 5.5 lakh downloads and nearly 8 lakh tickets purchased so far.

Announcing the initiative, Chennai Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (CUMTA) Member-Secretary Jeyakumar said the Re 1 ticket scheme aims to familiarise the public with seamless, cashless travel.

Under the offer, users can avail of one journey ticket for Re 1 on any single mode of transport, MTC bus, Metro, or suburban train, via BHIM UPI or Namma UPI payments within the app. The offer can be used only once, after which normal fares will apply.

Officials said the initiative supports the city’s vision of “One City, One App, One Ticket,” making travel simpler, faster, and more environmentally friendly.

In just one month, the app has recorded 14 lakh journey searches and 8.1 lakh ticket purchases, with commuters praising its clean design and convenience in managing multiple modes of travel through a unified QR code system.

To claim the offer, users need to download or open the Chennai One app, select their destination, and pay Re 1 via BHIM UPI or Namma UPI to receive a digital ticket. The offer is valid for a single journey only and cannot be combined with other promotions.

IANS