Can a DMRC Smart Card be Used by Two People at the Same Time?

A common question among commuters in the Delhi Metro rail network is whether a single DMRC (Delhi Metro Rail Corporation) smart card can be shared by two people during a journey. The answer to this question is no; each smart card is uniquely linked to one individual and is designed to be used exclusively by that user.

Metro Rails System Design

Metro Rails in Delhi issue smart cards as an alternative to traditional tickets. These cards can be purchased once and recharged as needed, allowing for repeated journeys. Essentially, a smart card functions much like a ticket but is more convenient for regular commuters due to its reusable nature. Each card is tied to a single user’s account, ensuring fair and accurate fare calculations based on each individual’s travel history.

Technical Limitations and Usage Guidelines

Using the same DMRC smart card for multiple people or at the same time could lead to complications. For instance, when entering and exiting the metro network, the system records the entry and exit stations respectively. These records are used to determine the appropriate fare and adjust the card balance accordingly.

If two individuals tried to use the same smart card simultaneously, the system would face difficulty in determining which person entered which station. This ambiguity would make it impossible for the system to accurately calculate fares, posing challenges in fare collection and management.

Practical Workarounds and Considerations

While it is not officially allowed for a single smart card to be used by two people at the same time, there are scenarios where a card can be shared. For example, one person can use the card first and another later, as long as each person completes a full journey (entry and exit).

It’s important to note that the metro system cannot differentiate between individual rides when a single card is involved. As a result, the fare system might assume an incomplete journey if the same card is swiped multiple times within a short period. This could lead to deductions from the card balance even if the intended journey was completed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, for optimal functionality and to avoid complications, each person should use their own DMRC smart card. However, in occasional cases, it may be possible to share a card as long as each user adheres to the rules and completes their individual journeys properly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I lend my card to a friend?

Yes, you can lend your card to a friend to use, but it’s important to ensure they complete their journey before you need to use it again.

What happens if two people use the same card at the same time?

The system may not be able to accurately calculate the fare, leading to incorrect deductions from the card balance.

Is there a specific smart card for bank tie-ups?

Yes, certain smart cards can also function as ATM cards with bank tie-ups, but these cannot be shared among users.

Always follow the guidelines set by DMRC to ensure smooth and efficient travel.