By Prashant for PuneriPages.in
Ever tapped your QR ticket and wondered: “Ab kya? Kitne der mein nikalna hai?” You’re not alone.
Let me break this down for you the way I wish someone had done for me the first time I used the Pune Metro. This isn’t a boring list of rules – it’s your easy-to-understand, no-confusion-needed guide that answers every “Metro mein kya hota hai?” question you didn’t know you had.
Table of Contents
The Quick Cheat Sheet (Save this!)
Here’s the TL;DR version for busy Punekars:
Ticket Type | Time to Enter Station | Max Journey Time | Overstay Fine |
---|---|---|---|
QR Single/Return Ticket | 30 mins | 90 mins | ₹10 to ₹50 |
Metro Travel Card | Within 1 Hour | 120 mins | ₹50 onwards |
So, if you’re chilling after buying the ticket, don’t chill too much. The clock is ticking!
Step-by-Step: How This Metro Thing Works
1. Buying Your Ticket: Use the machine, app, or counter. For QR tickets, save the code – and no, your phone at 5% battery isn’t the best plan.
2. Entering the Metro: Tap the code/card at the entry gate. The moment you tap, your journey time starts. It’s like starting a stopwatch.
3. Completing the Ride: Reach your station and tap again at the exit gate. You need to do this within the allowed time (90 mins usually).
4. Exiting the Station: Don’t loiter around inside the station. You have a max of 20 minutes post-exit tap to be outside the paid area.
Real Talk from People Who Use It Daily
I spoke to Rohit, a regular commuter from PCMC to Shivajinagar. He said, “The most common mistake I see? People forget the return journey validity. It’s same-day only.”
A metro staff member at Vanaz told me, “People think once you enter, you can chill inside. But they get surprised when the gate blocks them during exit because they overstayed.”
Pro Tip: Use the Metro Travel Card if you travel regularly. It’s faster, has better time limits, and saves you from digging for QR codes in your gallery.
The FAQ Every First-Timer Asks
Q: What happens if I stay too long inside the station?
A: You’ll have to pay a fine of up to ₹50, depending on how much you exceeded the time.
Q: What if I lose my QR ticket or my phone dies?
A: Tough luck. Metro staff can help, but be ready for some extra questions and possibly a fine.
Q: Can I buy a ticket now and use it tomorrow?
A: Nope. QR tickets are valid only for the day of purchase.
Q: What about children?
A: Kids under 3 feet (approx. 90cm) travel free. Above that, they need a ticket.
Q: Metro Card vs QR Code – which is better?
A: Cards are best if you’re a regular. No need to keep scanning codes and less chance of fines.
Conclusion
Traveling in Pune Metro is super convenient, but only if you know the rules. I created this guide because I’ve seen people confused, fined, and frustrated. Don’t be that person. Save this guide, share it with your friends, and next time someone asks you, “How much time do I have to exit the Metro?” – send them this link.
Safe travels, Pune! 🚇
Written with chai in hand and Pune in heart, by Prashant @ PuneriPages.in