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Kochi Metro has recently integrated with the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC), becoming the second mass rapid transport system after the Chennai Metro to do so. This integration allows travellers to book single or return trips on the Kochi Metro using various apps like Yatri, Paytm, Rapido, redBus, and PhonePe. Additionally, ongoing efforts are to enable ticket bookings through Google Maps, Uber, and EaseMyTrip, highlighting the move towards a unified digital transit system. This development was announced at an event, underscoring Kochi Metro’s role in evolving towards a digital multimodal-transit system, facilitating smooth travel experiences across different transport modes.

Sanjiv, the Joint Secretary of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), noted at the event that Kochi Metro’s integration with ONDC signifies progress in digitizing and optimizing urban transportation, aiming for wider accessibility and efficiency. Bejoy John, a DPIIT Director, emphasized that this initiative supports the vision of a seamless digital ecosystem, benefiting commuters and influencing urban transport policies. This integration, according to T. Koshy, CEO of ONDC, is a crucial step in transforming urban mobility, anticipating further expansions to include a variety of services within this open network.

Loknath Behera, KMRL’s managing director, remarked on the significance of offering metro ticketing through diverse apps on the ONDC network, aiming for greater accessibility and convenience. Nitin Nair of ONDC highlighted the benefits of QR-based ticketing, offering commuters more options beyond traditional methods. The ONDC aims to accelerate digital adoption, allowing metro services to extend their ticket offerings and innovate further, including integrating shopping for groceries or necessities into the travel experience.

Established in 2021 by the DPIIT under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, ONDC is not a specific app or platform but a series of standards promoting open and interoperable digital networks, aimed at transforming and streamlining commercial activities across various sectors.

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