IPL rush: Bangalore Metro to use pre-printed paper tickets

BENGALURU: In a bid to handle additional passenger rush during Indian Premier League (IPL) match days, the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL), for the first time, will use pre-printed paper tickets.
It will cost Rs 50 per passenger and can be used only for travel from Cubbon Park and Mahatma Gandhi Metro stations to any station along the Purple and Green Lines. Passengers must show the paper ticket to the security guard at the entry and after the journey, it must be handed over at the exit gate.

“Commuters can purchase return journey tickets (paper ticket) from any metro station valid till the last train service from 4pm onwards on each match day,” BMRCL managing director Mahendra Jain said.

The move is to clear the rush after matches and avoid long queues due to unavailability of exact change at counters. Paper tickets are available to commuters in addition to tokens. Smart card holders will have regular discounted rates for distance travelled during extended hours on all match days.

The ridership touches more than 4 lakh during IPL days. BMRCL has extended service up to 12.30am on match days — April 13, 21, 25, 29 and May 1 and 17 — on both Purple and Green Lines.