KOCHI: Kochi Metro’s Automatic Fare Collection (AFC) is the first such ticketing system implemented in the country. It uses a combination of Open Loop Smart Cards, Radio Frequency Identification Devices and Quick Response Codes to collect fares from users, minimising the need for cash transactions.
The AFC system is enabled by a complex hardware and software installed at the entry points of metro stations. The end-to-end management of the system is handled by Mumbai-based AGS Transact Technologies.
“By offering an integrated structure of collection, compilation and computing for the AFC system, AGS Transact Technologies aims to ensure that the commuter has an efficient and hassle-free experience.
Kochi Metro will lay the foundation to how future metro and public transportation projects are designed in our country with AFC being the preferred mode of transacting within the entire transportation structure,” said Ravi B Goyal, chairman and managing director of AGS Transact Technologies.
Kochi Metro Rail Ltd had earlier signed a PPP pact with Axis Bank for the AFC system. The bank has partnered with Asis Elektronik ve Bilisim Sistemleri, a Turkish company, for the infrastructure and AGS Transact Technologies Ltd for the integration and maintenance in the system.