PhonePe Launches ‘On-The-Go’ RuPay NCMC Card to Simplify Transit Payments in India

Digital payments platform PhonePe has introduced its ‘On-The-Go’ RuPay NCMC Card, designed to make public transport payments faster and more convenient for commuters. The new card supports the government-backed ‘One Nation One Card’ initiative and allows passengers to make offline tap-and-pay transactions across various transport services. Initially rolled out at the Hyderabad Metro, the card is expected to simplify everyday commuting by enabling quick payments without requiring internet connectivity.

PhonePe Introduces ‘On-The-Go’ RuPay NCMC Card for Seamless Transit Payments

A Step Toward India’s ‘One Nation One Card’ Vision

In a move aimed at strengthening India’s digital public transport ecosystem, fintech major PhonePe has launched its ‘On-The-Go’ RuPay National Common Mobility Card (NCMC). The card is designed to enable seamless payments across multiple transportation services under the government’s ‘One Nation One Card’ initiative.

The new prepaid card allows commuters to make quick tap-and-pay transactions at transit points such as metro stations, buses, railway services, toll plazas, and parking facilities. By integrating multiple transportation payment systems into a single card, the initiative aims to improve efficiency and convenience for millions of daily commuters across India.

The card operates using offline payment technology, allowing users to make transactions even without internet connectivity. This feature ensures smooth and uninterrupted payments, especially in areas where network coverage may be limited.

How the RuPay NCMC Card Works

Offline Payments with Stored Value Technology

The ‘On-The-Go’ RuPay NCMC Card works through a stored-value mechanism embedded within the card’s chip. Users can preload money onto the card, which is then used for payments at supported transit points.

According to the company, the card supports a maximum stored balance of ₹2,000, while individual offline transactions can be made up to ₹500. This limit is designed to facilitate quick payments for everyday travel needs such as metro rides, bus fares, parking charges, and toll payments.

Since the payment is processed directly through the card’s chip, commuters can simply tap the card on the payment terminal to complete the transaction instantly. This eliminates the need for PIN entry or internet connectivity, significantly reducing waiting times at busy transit stations.

Initial Launch at Hyderabad Metro

Partnership with L&T Metro Rail Hyderabad

The rollout of the card has begun at the Hyderabad Metro through a partnership with L&T Metro Rail (Hyderabad) Limited.

Commuters can currently purchase the card directly from Hyderabad Metro ticket counters. The process is designed to be quick and simple. Users only need to verify their mobile number through a one-time password (OTP) during the registration process.

Once activated, the card can be recharged using multiple payment options, including:

• UPI payments

• Debit or credit cards

• Cash deposits

This flexible recharge system ensures accessibility for both digital-savvy users and those who prefer traditional payment methods.

Interoperability Across Multiple Indian Cities

Card Can Be Used Nationwide at NCMC-Enabled Systems

Although the initial rollout is focused on Hyderabad, the card is built on the RuPay National Common Mobility Card framework, making it fully interoperable across cities that support NCMC-enabled systems.

This means commuters can use the same card for transit services in major metropolitan areas such as:

• Delhi

• Mumbai

• Chennai

• Bengaluru

As more transport networks integrate NCMC technology, the card is expected to become increasingly useful for frequent travelers who move between different cities.

PhonePe’s Strategy in the Transit Payment Ecosystem

Expanding Beyond Digital Payments

The launch of the RuPay NCMC card represents an important strategic move for PhonePe as it expands its footprint in India’s mobility and transit payments sector.

According to Deep Agrawal, Head of Payments at the company, the card enables quick tap-and-pay transactions across multiple transit providers while functioning seamlessly in offline mode.

He highlighted that the launch marks the company’s first step toward integrating its digital wallet ecosystem with India’s public transportation infrastructure.

Over the past few years, PhonePe has already introduced several transit-related services on its platform, including:

• Digital metro ticketing

• Travel passes

• Smart card recharge services

By adding the NCMC card to its offerings, the company is aiming to create a more comprehensive travel payment ecosystem.

Supporting India’s Digital Mobility Vision

Towards a Unified Payment System for Public Transport

The National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) initiative is part of the government’s broader strategy to create a unified payment system for transportation services across India.

Traditionally, commuters had to carry separate cards or tickets for different modes of transport. With NCMC-enabled solutions, passengers can rely on a single card for multiple mobility services, reducing complexity and improving user experience.

The initiative is expected to play a crucial role in promoting cashless transactions, digital payments, and smart mobility infrastructure in Indian cities.

By enabling offline payments and nationwide interoperability, the PhonePe On-The-Go RuPay NCMC Card is designed to support this vision while providing commuters with a convenient and reliable travel payment solution.

As public transportation networks continue to modernize and expand across India, such digital innovations are likely to become an integral part of the country’s urban mobility ecosystem.