How to Recharge Metro Card Online – Complete Step by Step Guide

Metro cards have become the easiest and most convenient way to travel in Indian metro cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, and others. Instead of standing in long queues for tokens every day, passengers can simply use a metro smart card. But to keep using it, you need to recharge your metro card online.

In this blog, we will explain the step-by-step process to recharge metro cards online, the different payment methods available, and important tips for hassle-free travel.

Why Use a Metro Smart Card?

Before learning how to recharge, let’s quickly see why metro smart cards are important:

1. Time-Saving – No need to wait in ticket queues.
2. Discounts on Fare – Most metros offer 10–20% discount on smart card rides.
3. Cashless Travel – Recharge online via apps, wallets, or UPI.
4. Easy to Carry – A single card is enough for multiple journeys.
5. Recharge Anytime – No dependency on station counters.

How to Recharge Metro Card Online

The exact process may vary slightly from city to city, but the steps are almost similar. Here’s the general process:

Step 1: Visit the Official Metro Website or App

Each metro corporation has an official website or mobile app where you can recharge. For example:

• Delhi Metro → dmrcsmartcard.com
• Bangalore Metro (Namma Metro) → Paytm/official app
• Kolkata Metro → SBI/UPI recharge portals
• Hyderabad Metro → TSavaari app

Step 2: Login or Enter Card Details

• Enter your Metro Smart Card number printed on the back of the card.
• In some cities, you may also need to create a login account.

Step 3: Select Recharge Amount

• Choose the recharge value (₹100, ₹200, ₹500, ₹1000 etc.).
• Some apps also allow custom recharge amounts.

Step 4: Make Online Payment

• Use UPI, Debit Card, Credit Card, Net Banking, or Wallets like Paytm/PhonePe.
• Once the payment is successful, you will receive a transaction receipt.

Step 5: Activate Recharge at Metro Station (If Required)

• In Delhi Metro, after online recharge, you must activate it at any AVM (Add Value Machine) near customer care/ticket counter.
• Simply tap your card at the machine, and the balance will be updated.
• Some cities (like Bangalore & Hyderabad) allow direct recharge without AVM validation.

Recharge Metro Card Using Paytm / UPI

Most metros in India allow recharging via Paytm, PhonePe, or Google Pay.

How to Recharge via Paytm:

1. Open the Paytm app.
2. Go to Metro → Metro Recharge.
3. Select your City/Metro service.
4. Enter your Smart Card number.
5. Enter the recharge amount and pay via UPI, Wallet, or Card.
6. If required (Delhi Metro), validate at AVM machine before travel.

This method is quick and widely used.

Benefits of Online Metro Card Recharge

• Recharge 24/7 from home or office.
• Multiple payment options available.
• No extra charges (same as counter recharge).
• Track transaction history easily.
• Safe & Contactless, especially after COVID-19.

Metro Cities Offering Online Recharge

Here’s a quick look at Indian metro cities where online metro recharge is available:

• Delhi Metro (DMRC)
• Kolkata Metro
• Mumbai Metro
• Bangalore Metro (Namma Metro)
• Hyderabad Metro
• Chennai Metro
• Lucknow Metro
• Jaipur Metro
• Nagpur Metro
• Noida–Greater Noida Metro

Each city uses either an official metro app/website or third-party platforms like Paytm/PhonePe.

Tips for Hassle-Free Metro Recharge

1. Always note down your Smart Card number before recharge.
2. If using Delhi Metro, don’t forget to tap the AVM machine after online recharge.
3. Use Paytm or UPI apps for quick and secure transactions.
4. Recharge with a higher amount (₹500–₹1000) if you travel daily, to avoid frequent recharges.
5. Keep an eye on your balance using the metro app or at station kiosks.

FAQ