Lucknow, October 9 (TNA) Lucknow Metro has extended the deadline for metro commuters to switch from their existing GoSmart Cards to the National Common Mobility Card (NCMC), the free card exchange facility, till 16 October 2026. The facility, which was earlier scheduled to close on 9th October, will continue till 16th October across all Lucknow Metro stations.
The response to the initiative has been encouraging, with approximately 55,000 GoSmart Cards already exchanged for NCMC cards. The growing participation reflects passengers’ acceptance of the unified mobility card system aimed at making public transport more convenient and accessible.
To make the transition hassle-free, existing GoSmart Card holders are advised to utilise their remaining card balance before approaching the station for exchange. Once the balance has been exhausted, passengers can surrender their GoSmart Card and obtain an NCMC card free of cost during the extended exchange period.
NCMC: One Card for Multiple Mobility Needs
The National Common Mobility Card, popularly known as “One Nation One Card”, is designed to enable seamless travel across participating transport networks and other compatible payment services through a single card.
With the transition to NCMC, the existing range of Lucknow Metro cards, including GoSmart Cards, Tourist Cards and Super Saver Cards, is being phased out. NCMC will serve as the primary mobility card for Lucknow Metro passengers, offering a convenient and cashless travel experience.
The card can be used on Lucknow Metro and, subject to interoperability, across participating metro systems, buses, parking facilities and retail outlets.
Key Benefits of NCMC
• 10% discount on every journey on Lucknow Metro.
• A single card for travel across participating metro systems.
• Usability at participating buses, parking facilities and retail outlets.
• Convenient and cashless travel without the need to purchase a separate ticket for every journey.
• Reduced dependence on multiple mobility cards.
• Support for an integrated and seamless public transport ecosystem.
NCMC cards issued by participating banks and other metro systems can also be used on Lucknow Metro, subject to applicable interoperability arrangements.
How to Exchange an Existing GoSmart Card
Existing GoSmart Card holders can complete the exchange through the following simple process:
1. Utilise the remaining balance on the existing GoSmart Card.
2. Visit any Lucknow Metro station by 16 October 2026.
3. Surrender the existing GoSmart Card.
4. Collect the new NCMC card free of cost.
Passengers who have not yet exchanged their cards are encouraged to avail themselves of the extended facility within the stipulated period.
NCMC for New Users
Passengers who do not hold a GoSmart Card can purchase a new NCMC at Lucknow Metro stations. For new users, the card issuance charge is ₹100, which is non-refundable.
NCMC cards are available through designated Airtel Payments Bank counters and kiosks at metro stations. The issuance process includes OTP-based mobile verification for a convenient and streamlined experience.
Easy Recharge and Top-up Facility
Passengers can recharge their NCMC through the following channels:
• Airtel Payments Bank kiosks at metro stations.
• Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs).
• Airtel App.
• Other available NCMC-compatible recharge channels.
The minimum top-up amount is ₹100, while the maximum is ₹2,000.
Moving Towards a Unified Mobility System
UPMRC launched the National Common Mobility Card for Lucknow Metro on 15 July 2026 as part of its efforts to promote integrated and digitally enabled urban mobility. The ongoing transition to NCMC marks an important step towards a unified card system for Lucknow Metro passengers.
Lucknow Metro has also enabled digital payment options through debit cards, credit cards and UPI at ticket counters and Ticket Vending Machines. The adoption of NCMC further strengthens UPMRC’s focus on passenger convenience, cashless transactions and seamless mobility.
The extension of the free exchange facility till 16 October 2026 gives existing GoSmart Card holders additional time to complete the transition without paying any card issuance charge.
UPMRC Managing Director Shri Sushil Kumar said, “The response to the transition towards NCMC has been encouraging, with more than 55,000 passengers already exchanging their GoSmart Cards. We want to make this transition as convenient as possible for our passengers. Keeping this in mind, the exchange facility has been extended till 16 October 2026. I appeal to all remaining GoSmart Card holders to utilise this opportunity and move to NCMC, which will support a more integrated and convenient travel experience.”