CHENNAI: Encouraged by the public response to the Chennai One mobility app, the Chennai Unified Metropolitan Transport Authority (CUMTA) is looking to launch monthly digital bus passes priced between Rs 1,000 and Rs 2,000 from mid-November, as part of efforts to centralise ticketing and payments across public transit. Special Officer Jayakumar said development work is under way, with a rollout targeted for November 10, subject to final approvals.
CUMTA is also developing a virtual payment wallet-modelled on the National Common Mobility Card for launch by December. The wallet is intended to consolidate fare payments across multiple modes and reduce cash transactions.
The Chennai One app has recorded more than 4.6 lakh downloads in its first month, with over 3.7 lakh tickets booked and repeat usage exceeding 74%. Daily bookings average 22,000, generating cumulative revenues of Rs 73 lakh.
Officials are seeking to expand the platform’s reach to air-conditioned suburban rail services. Chennai One currently supports ordinary suburban trains, and a request for access to the premium network is before the Railways.
Product updates under development include an improved vehicle-tracking interface, more accurate arrival estimates and refinement of commission and payout structures for beta partners.
The authority is also seeking permission to introduce leaderboards and awards for high-performing conductors and depot managers, part of a broader push to incentivise digital adoption across the workforce.
Additional proposals include a dedicated “Chennai One Zone” at depots to support outreach, pass sales and customer service, alongside a structured communications programme via WhatsApp. The team is also pursuing direct engagement with existing pass holders to reduce reliance on legacy paper systems.
Going HI-TECH
CUMTA is developing a virtual payment wallet modelled on the National Common Mobility Card for launch by December
Chennai One app has recorded more than 4.6 lakh downloads in its first month
Daily bookings average 22,000, generating cumulative revenue of Rs 73 lakh
