Mumbai Metro Line 3 passengers can now use contactless RuPay NCM card. (Express Photo)Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday launched the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC) for Mumbai Metro Line 3, also known as the Aqua Line, in a move to unify the city’s public transport system.The contactless RuPay NCM card that can be operated from Wednesday allows passengers to ride seamlessly between Metro Line 3 stations, from Aarey JVLR to Acharya Atre Chowk, without standing in long queues at ticketing counters.It is completely interoperable with other key Mumbai Metro lines — Line 1, Line 2A, and Line 7 — along with other transportation systems like Chalo Buses, providing a smooth multi-modal travel experience.The launch was held in the presence of Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule, Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik, and other senior officials.The initiative by the Mumbai Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (MMRC) is being executed in partnership with the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) and the State Bank of India (SBI).The existing commuters who already possess NCMC cards from SBI or other players can use their cards on Line 3 from Wednesday, officials said. New riders may get a free card from any Metro Line 3 station or SBI branches that are participating, with a minimum top-up of Rs 100 and a maximum of Rs 2,000, they added.Addressing the launch, MMRC Managing Director Ashwini Bhide stated, “The NCMC card integration in Mumbai Metro Line 3 is a significant milestone in our path towards smart and commuter-centric urban transport. Being the city’s first totally underground Metro corridor, Line 3 is planned with future-proof infrastructure and this contactless payment solution with ease is an integral part of that vision. We are excited to collaborate with NPCI and SBI to facilitate a seamless, hassle-free travel experience for Mumbaikars and enable the Government of India’s National Common Mobility Card programme.”Stay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram© IE Online Media Services Pvt Ltd