Chennai is set to become the first city in India to introduce a single mobile application that unifies all major modes of public transport. The initiative, led by the Chennai Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (CUMTA), will launch in September.
Chennai to Launch India’s First Unified Public Transport Ticketing App
The app will integrate metro trains, Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) buses, app-based autos, and taxis on one digital platform. By offering a seamless route selection tool, the system is designed to make city travel faster and simpler.
During a commute, passengers will receive a single QR code for their entire journey. Payments, however, will continue to be made separately for each mode of transport used along the way. Officials say this ensures flexibility while maintaining operational clarity.
One Platform for Metro, Bus, Auto, and Taxi Services
The platform is currently named “Anna-Ride Booking.” In its first phase, it will bring together Chennai Metro Rail, MTC buses, as well as Namma Yatri autos and taxis. Suburban train and MRTS services will be added in later phases.
For example, a user traveling from Nandanam to VR Mall could take the metro up to Koyambedu and then switch to a Namma Yatri auto. The application will calculate and suggest this route, producing a single trip plan with one scannable code.
Officials are highlighting this project as the first-of-its-kind in India. Its broader aim is to promote “Mobility as a Service,” encouraging people to rely less on private vehicles and more on integrated public transport.
Phased Implementation and Expansion Plans
The total cost of the initiative is estimated at ₹8.75 crore, covering technology, infrastructure, and support systems. The rollout will take place in five phases, beginning with urban services and gradually moving towards regional links.
In the second phase, integration of fare calculations is planned, enabling a consolidated payment system. By the third phase, the platform is expected to expand beyond Chennai, offering intercity connectivity and wider service availability.
CUMTA has already secured agreements with Chennai Metro (CMRL), MTC, and Namma Yatri. Talks with Southern Railways are also in progress to bring suburban trains into the network.
Transport experts say the real challenge will be adapting the service to India’s diverse commuting conditions. They note the app must account for road repairs, closures, and traditional route preferences to ensure smooth adoption by daily users.
By unifying multiple modes of transport under a digital platform, Chennai is taking a significant step towards creating a more commuter-friendly, technology-driven public mobility system. Authorities believe the project could set a model for other Indian cities.