Metro Bus, Orange Train and Speedo Card system ends across Punjab

The Punjab Mass Transit Authority has announced a major change to the fare collection system for the Orange Line Metro Train, Metro Bus and Speedo Bus services.

Mass Transit Authority In-charge Uzair Shah said the old tokens and smart cards will no longer be accepted. Passengers will now be able to pay fares using the T-Cash card, the official mobile app, or ATM and bank cards.

According to officials, the new system aims to provide faster, easier and more modern travel for daily commuters. The authority believes digital payments will improve convenience and reduce delays at stations.

Passengers who still have old travel cards have been asked to return them at their nearest station. However, the authority clarified that the balance stored on old cards will not be refunded.

Instead, commuters will only receive the card’s security deposit of Rs130 after returning the old card.

The announcement has triggered complaints from many passengers. Some commuters claimed that despite the decision to end the old system, several stations are still allowing old cards to be recharged.

Passengers also said they were not informed about the policy change in advance, leaving many confused about how to continue using public transport.

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Many commuters have urged the Punjab Mass Transit Authority to launch a proper public awareness campaign so that everyone understands the new payment process before the old system is completely phased out.

Several passengers welcomed the introduction of digital payments but criticised the decision not to return the remaining balance stored on old travel cards.

They have requested the authority to review its policy and provide relief to affected users, saying it would make the transition to the new system fairer and more transparent.