The question on everyone’s mind is — when will the ‘Common Mobility Card’ finally be introduced? People across Hyderabad have been eagerly waiting for this unified travel card, yet the authorities have not taken any concrete steps toward issuing it. Many commuters are disappointed, as the card is expected to allow seamless travel on both Metro trains and RTC buses.

• City commuters are anticipating a unified Metro–RTC travel card
• The earlier government's promise has not materialized
• A single card would eliminate the need for multiple tickets
• Monthly top-ups would make daily travel more convenient

Hyderabad City:

Residents have been expecting the launch of the ‘Common Mobility Card’ for several years. They want a system that enables travel on Metro trains and RTC buses using just one card. The former BRS government had planned to integrate the city’s major public transportation networks — Metro Rail and RTC — and offer passengers ticket-free movement through a shared card. The policy was originally slated to be implemented by August 2023, but officials failed to roll it out.

Due to this delay, passengers still need separate tickets for Metro and RTC services. Metro trains operate from 6 a.m. to 11:15 p.m., carrying about 4.6 to 4.8 lakh passengers every day. RTC buses transport nearly 24 lakh commuters daily through its fleet of 3,200 buses operating from 4 a.m. to midnight. Among these are roughly 2 lakh students and 2 lakh employees who use various travel passes.

MMTS–RTC Combined Pass Already Exists

Currently, 76 MMTS trains run daily across the Secunderabad, Kacheguda, Nampally and Falaknuma routes. Before the pandemic, 128 services were available each day, serving nearly 1.68 lakh passengers. At present, around 32,000 commuters use the 76 operating trains. To support these commuters, MMTS-linked RTC bus services have also been arranged to help travelers reach offices and homes during morning and evening peak hours. Earlier, a pass costing Rs. 800 allowed unrestricted travel on both MMTS trains and RTC buses. That price has now risen to Rs. 1,350 per month.

Advantages of the Common Mobility Card

Authorities say that launching the Common Mobility Card for Metro and RTC users will offer several benefits. If the first phase succeeds, the system may be expanded to include MMTS trains, cabs, and autos. Officials also noted that with proper agreements between states, the card could eventually be used for travel across the entire country.