Will CM Stalin Launch a 25-Year Mobility Plan and QR-Based Ticketing for Chennai?

Chennai, Sep 20 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, M.K. Stalin, is set to introduce a transformative 25-year Comprehensive Mobility Plan (CMP) for the Chennai Metropolitan Area in the coming week. This initiative will coincide with the rollout of a single QR-code-based ticketing system aimed at integrating all primary public transport methods in the city.

These announcements are scheduled to be made during the second governing board meeting of the Chennai Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (CUMTA) at the State Secretariat, as reported in an official statement.

The CMP, which spans 5,904 sq km, outlines a strategic vision extending to 2048, with the goal of establishing an integrated, seamless, safe, and sustainable transport ecosystem for Chennai.

This plan aims to enhance the proportion of public transport usage, maintain affordable fare structures, fully integrate bus, metro, and para-transit services, and lower emissions by promoting non-motorised and eco-friendly mobility alternatives.

In conjunction with this long-term vision, CM Stalin will also unveil the Chennai One Mobility App, which will be available on both iOS and Android devices.

This app enables commuters to plan their journeys, track services in real-time, and purchase digital tickets through UPI or card payments.

A standout feature known as 'One City, One Ticket' will allow passengers to seamlessly transition between buses, metro trains, and suburban rail systems with a single QR code - a pioneering initiative in any Indian city.

Officials noted that the app, accessible in Tamil, English, Telugu, and Hindi, is anticipated to reduce queues at ticket counters and facilitate smoother transfers between various transport modes.

According to CUMTA special officer I. Jayakumar, "Passengers can plan, pay, and travel across modes with just a few taps - this is a groundbreaking reform for Chennai's public transport system."

Transport planners are optimistic that the CMP, in conjunction with the unified ticketing system, could serve as a model for other metropolitan cities aiming to enhance service integration and improve commuter experiences.

By providing a unified platform and a forward-looking strategy, the State government aspires to elevate mobility, alleviate congestion, and reduce pollution.

With these innovative initiatives, Chennai is positioning itself as a leader in mobility reforms across India, working towards a modern, commuter-friendly, and sustainable transportation framework for the future.