The Urban Metro Rail ecosystem serves 1.15 crore daily commuters, with more than 40% of commuters depending on cash or cash or physical tickets.

In the latest wave of fintech-meets-mobility innovation, Uber has quietly made a power move. By integrating Delhi Metro ticketing into its app via the government-backed ONDC (Open Network for Digital Commerce), Uber is doing more than selling train tickets—it's strategically embedding itself into the daily lives of millions.

👀 While all eyes are on ONDC’s transformation of digital commerce, the real value in this story may lie in what Uber gains. Let’s break it down. 👇

Yes, in this, ONDC is the chief winner

🎯 Uber's Real Win: Becoming More Than a Ride-Hailing App

With this ONDC integration, Uber is fast-tracking its evolution into a full-fledged mobility platform. It’s not just about getting from point A to B anymore—Uber wants to own the entire commute.

BHIM Vega solution is developed by NPCI BHIM Services Limited (NBSL) which acts as an advanced merchant plugin offered via acquiring banks. Unlike Traditional UPI payment systems that redirect users to external gateways, BHIM Vega enables in-app, one-click payments.

Key features of BHIM Vega integration:

Direct UPI registration: Commuters can create and link UPI IDs directly on the Sarthi app.

Bank and RuPay card linkage: Easy connection of accounts and cards for smooth transactions.

Secure and fast checkouts: Eliminates redirection for a frictionless experience.

Certified by NPCI: Ensures reliability, safety, and compliance with national standards.

Currently live with Delhi Metro, Mumbai Metro (Lines 1, 2A, 7 & 3) and Bengaluru Metro, the integration is part of ONDC Network’s broader effort to enable mobility solutions on open networks. Navi UPI plans to extend the experience to additional cities and transport systems, bringing everyday mobility into the digitaOl fold.

The Urban Metro Rail ecosystem serves 1.15 crore daily commuters, with more than 40% of commuters depending on cash or cash or physical tickets. By digitising one of the country’s most common public transport transactions, Navi UPI aims to increase digital adoption while rewarding customers for their daily journeys. The app continues to evolve as one of India’s fastest-growing payment apps – offering instant transfers, strong security, and rewards for everyday payments.

Sh. Vibhor Jain, Acting CEO and COO at ONDC, added: ”The integration of DMRC into the ONDC Network illustrates how open digital ecosystems can enable broader, more seamless access to public services. By connecting once to the Network, DMRC can now offer ticketing across a range of everyday apps without needing custom integrations for each one.”

This collaboration signifies more than a technological advancement—it signals a broader shift toward open digital public infrastructure. By embedding physical services like metro ticketing into digital networks, access becomes an integrated part of everyday life, not an isolated task. DMRC’s participation in ONDC supports its larger vision of expanding its digital footprint while simplifying user experience.

How it works?

- Download and sign up using your mobile number.

- Select source and destination stations (nearest station is auto-selected).

- Choose number of tickets (up to 4).

- Pay using UPI, credit or debit cards.

- Receive a QR code ticket directly in the app, ready to scan at metro gates.

The feature aims to ease daily commutes by allowing users to plan end-to-end journeys in one place—addressing the longstanding gaps between first- and last-mile connectivity. “This forms the foundation for Uber to replicate such integrations across India. Delhi is just the beginning,” said Naga, adding that three more cities will see similar rollouts in the coming year.

By - Aaradhay Sharma