Delhi Metro stands as the country’s most extensive and state-of-the-art rapid transit system, celebrated as much for its relentless expansion as for the passenger amenities it offers. The system combines seamless, air-conditioned travel with pocket-friendly fares, allowing commuters to glide from the heart of Delhi to nearby cities like Noida, Gurugram, and Faridabad without the hassle of road congestion. However, certain metro stations are off-limits to the general public. At these locations, disembarking demands presentation of a specific government-issued identity card. The access control, mandated by security protocols, ensures that sensitive areas remain shielded from unauthorised entry. A passenger alighting at one of these stations without the requisite ID may face disciplinary action. Here are the stations where the entry restriction applies.In the Delhi Metro network, the usual entry and exit rules apply at nearly every station. However, two specific stations—Shankar Vihar and Sadar Bazar Cantt—have restricted alighting for the general public. Both are located within military zones, and only holders of special defence ID cards are permitted to exit trains here. Without prior authorisation, ordinary citizens cannot disembark. The rule is long-standing, largely unknown to many Delhi residents, and is enforced strictly for security purposes.Neither station can serve regular passengers for the same reason. Shankar Vihar lies along the Magenta Line, while Sadar Bazar Cantt also falls within the controlled defence estate. Metro management states that public alighting is barred at these points because the military area requires heightened security. Trains pass through normally, but the platform doors remain locked and the exit gates sealed to anyone lacking the specified identification.Booking Metro Tickets with Token and Smart CardBuying a Token Where to find it: You can get a token at the ticket counter or from a vending machine at any metro station. How to use it: Swiped at the entry gate, the token must be dropped into the exit gate after your ride.Using a Smart CardWhat it is: A smart card holds a prepaid balance, letting you travel any number of times without needing to buy a token each time. Where to buy it: Available only at the counter in the metro station. How it works: Simply tap the card at the entry gate and again at the exit gate; the fare will be deducted from the card balance.Mobile App and NCMCMobile App** (like DMRC, Paytm, or PhonePe) 1. Install the app. 2. Navigate to the Metro section. 3. Pick the stations—Source and Destination. 4. Purchase the QR ticket and make the payment. How to travel: At the station, scan the QR code at the scanner and your journey starts. National Common Mobility Card (NCMC)What it is: A card that works across metro, bus, and parking. How to use it: Just tap the card at the metro gate—you’ll find it at your bank.
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