Metro Rail Passengers Can Now Recharge Metro Pass From Home

Passengers of Dhaka’s metro rail will soon be able to recharge their permanent cards from the comfort of home. The new online recharge facility, set to launch on 25 November, will allow users to top up using credit/debit cards, bKash, Nagad, Rocket or other online banking services.

The service was inaugurated by Sheikh Moinuddin, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser (Ministry of Road Transport, Bridges and Railways).

Initially, recharges can be made through the Dhaka Transport Coordination Authority (DTCA) website, with a dedicated mobile app to follow later.

DTCA Executive Director Nilima Akter said the facility will eliminate the need to queue at stations, saving both time and hassle for commuters.

After recharging online, passengers need only touch their card once on an Add Value Machine (AVM) at any station to update the balance. The card will then function normally until the balance is exhausted.

Currently, two types of permanent cards are in use: the DMTCL’s MRT Pass and DTCA’s Rapid Pass. Both can be recharged through the new online system.

According to DTCA, two AVMs will be installed at each station. With 16 stations from Uttara to Motijheel, a total of 32 machines will be available.

Authorities view the initiative as a major step toward enhancing passenger convenience. At present, 55 per cent of metro rail users rely on Rapid Pass or MRT cards. Officials expect the online recharge option to further accelerate daily commuter flow.