Dhaka Mass Transit Company Limited (DMTCL) has announced plans to introduce a universal ticketing system on the city’s metro rail network, aimed at eliminating persistent ticket shortages and improving commuter convenience. The updated system aims to merge the current automated ticketing, smart cards, and entry via QR codes to make lines shorter and enhance efficiency. Dhaka’s metro currently serves around 350,000–400,000 passengers daily, half of whom rely on single-journey paper tickets. These tickets are often in short supply, and when cards are damaged or not returned, it leads to long lines, crowded stations, and frustrated travelers. To tackle the problem, DMTCL plans to introduce QR-code tickets and phase out single-journey cards, reforming station entry with dedicated gates for QR and smartcard access. Under the new system, passengers will be able to use MRT Pass, Rapid Pass, or paper tickets embedded with unique QR codes. The QR tickets will be issued at specified booths, and commuters can scan them at entry—unlike current tokens, these tickets won’t be reusable on subsequent days. DMTCL will also appoint a contractor soon to execute the rollout, with mobile scanners expected to support the implementation. The operator is also collaborating with banks and payment providers to enable contactless payment via debit and credit cards, with plans for integration using bank-issued smartcards. According to Managing Director Faruque Ahmed, these digital payment options are expected to be available within two to three months. Since its launch in December 2022, Dhaka’s metro has relied on two smartcard systems—MRT Pass (NFC-based, rechargeable with a ten-year validity) and Rapid Pass, which integrates with broader public transport and offers fare discounts. Despite issuing more than 728,000 MRT cards, DMTCL has struggled with distribution, while the Rapid Pass supply chain remains caught in bureaucratic delays under the Dhaka Transport Coordination Authority. Officials expect that the new system will significantly ease passenger flow, reduce dependence on single-use tickets, and minimize wait times. Station controllers have reported entry gate delays of up to 20 minutes during peak hours—delays the new ticketing infrastructure aims to eliminate. By integrating multiple ticketing modes and embracing digital solutions, DMTCL hopes to bring Dhaka’s metro fare collection in line with international best practices. The universal ticketing system is designed to support future modal integration with bus and rail networks, enhancing the city’s broader transport ecosystem. As infrastructure upgrades and funding fall into place, DMTCL plans to launch the universal ticketing system later in 2025, promising Dhaka’s rapidly growing metro ridership a smoother and smarter commuting experience.
