Pune Metro, in a move to enhance and simplify student transportation, has unveiled the One Pune Vidyarthi Pass. This initiative aims to offer both affordability and convenience to student commuters. To kick-start this venture, the first 10,000 cards are being distributed for free on a first-come first-served basis.
What Does One Pune Vidyarthi Pass Provide?
This innovative pass facilitates contactless transactions, calculating fares based on entry and exit taps. The maximum limit per transaction is capped at Rs 2,000, and students can perform up to 20 such transactions daily. Powered by HDFC Bank’s National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) prepaid system, it allows users to recharge their passes seamlessly either at station counters, via digital kiosks, or the “One Pune Card” online portal.
Post the inaugural giveaway, the pass maintains a transparent pricing strategy to ensure student-friendly costs. The issuance of the card bears a cost of Rs 150, and an annual maintenance fee is set at Rs 75. Recharging the card comes with a fee, pegged at 1.8 per cent of the recharge amount, but it won’t exceed Rs 12. Replacements or re-issuance of the card are priced at Rs 150. Moreover, the pass grants users the perk of balance enquiries at no extra charge. All the fees and charges abide by the terms set by the Pune Metro Rail Project, except for GST.
During the launch of the One Pune Vidyarthi Pass, Director of Pune Metro, Shravan Hardikar, commented, This is a monumental stride towards redefining student commute. Beyond cost-effective travel, our focus lies in guaranteeing safety, comfort, and efficiency. Hardikar emphasised that the pass empowers students to allocate more time to academics and extracurriculars, rather than commute hassles, echoing that it’s much more than just a transportation tool.
One Pune Vidyarthi Pass Feature
Efficient Contactless Payments: The pass ensures swift and secure touch-free payments, streamlining the entire travel process.
Nationwide Utility: As an added advantage, students can utilise the card at any NCMC-compatible metro station across India.
