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Metro Advertising Regulations and Approval Process in India
Metro advertising is booming in India as urban transit systems expand rapidly across cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Pune. With lakhs of daily commuters, metro networks offer unmatched visibility for brands. However, executing a metro ad campaign is not as simple as placing posters or digital displays inside trains or stations. There are structured rules, approvals, and regulations that advertisers and agencies must follow before launching any metro-based campaign.
Understanding the metro advertising approval process and regulatory framework is crucial for a seamless and compliant execution. This blog explores the key aspects of metro advertising permissions, media types, and the official channels involved.
Governing Bodies for Metro Advertising in India
Metro rail systems in India are managed either by central government bodies or by Public-Private Partnerships. Each metro network is governed by its corporation, such.
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Delhi Metro Rail Corporation
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Mumbai Metro One and Maha Metro
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Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited
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Hyderabad Metro Rail
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Chennai Metro Rail Limited
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Pune Metro by Maha Metro
Each body has distinct rules but broadly follows similar advertising protocols. They lease advertising rights to agencies or partners who further allow brands and advertising companies to place ads on selected media formats within the metro premises.
Types of Metro Advertising Media Covered Under Regulations
All media formats are regulated to maintain aesthetics, commuter safety, and operational efficiency. Common advertising formats include
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Station branding, including pillars, walls, and ticket counters
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Inside train panels and train wraps
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Platform screen doors and gates
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Digital display screens and LED panels
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Static billboards and backlit signage
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Lift branding, staircase risers, and escalators.
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Kiosks and promotional zones inside stations
Each of these formats must be approved and adhere to specific size, content, and placement guidelines before deployment.
Key Metro Advertising Guidelines and Content Restrictions
Whether you are advertising a tech brand, real estate project, FMCG product, or service, the following content-related regulations must be followed across all metro systems.
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No objectionable, vulgar, political, or religious content
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No content that affects communal harmony or public order
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No promotion of tobacco, pan masala, liquor, or narcotic substances
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No misleading claims or unsubstantiated guarantees
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Language used should be appropriate and in line with public sensibilities.
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Creative should not interfere with operational signage or passenger safety indicators
In many cities, bilingual creatives may be encouraged, usually in English and the local language. Any violation of the content policy may result in immediate takedown without refund.
Metro Advertising Approval Process in India
The process of getting your ad campaign approved and live inside a metro network generally involves these steps.
Step 1- Identify Approved Vendors or Media Partners
Metro corporations do not allow direct bookings from brands. Instead, they license advertising rights to selected agencies through tender processes. Brands must work with these authorized vendors or through advertising agencies like iDroid, which already have tie-ups with official metro media partners.
Step 2- Share Creative Mockups for Review
Brands need to submit proposed creative designs in digital format for each media type they plan to use. The mockups should include exact size dimensions, branding elements, and message copy. Multiple design variations may be required if you are using multiple stations or train interiors.
Step 3- Content and Safety Compliance Check
The metro authority will examine your creatives for content compliance and safety considerations. The process usually involves the Legal and Operations department of the Metro Rail Corporation. For digital ads, the duration of display and animation speed may also be reviewed.
Step 4- Formal Application Submission
A formal application is submitted by the authorized vendor or your agency partner. This includes details like campaign start and end date, selected stations or trains, media type, estimated impressions, creative file formats, and government-issued approvals if required.
Step 5- Fee Payment and Documentation
Once creatives are approved, the required advertising fee must be paid in advance. Documentation including NOC (No Objection Certificate), display permits, and campaign agreement, is signed. Rates vary depending on city, location, format, and duration of the campaign.
Step 6- Installation and Monitoring,
Once documentation and payment are cleared, installation is carried out during non-peak hours under the supervision of Metro staff. For digital media, content is uploaded through centralized CMS systems. Daily monitoring and reporting are often handled by the media partner or agency.
How IDroid Advertising Simplifies the Metro Ad Approval Process?
As a full-service metro advertising agency, iDroid simplifies the complicated process of approvals and permissions by working directly with official metro media owners.
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We identify the best locations and train routes based on your target audience.
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We work with authorized vendors across metro networks.
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We design creative mockups that align with metro guidelines.
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We handle all application paperwork, follow-ups, and approvals.
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We coordinate with vendors and metro staff for installation.
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We provide performance tracking, impression reports, and renewal support
Whether you are planning a full-station branding in Delhi Metro, a digital screen campaign in Bangalore Metro, or in-train advertising in Pune Metro, we take care of everything end-to-end.
FAQs
What kind of brands can advertise in metros?
Any brand looking for high footfall and daily visibility can benefit from metro advertising. Popular sectors include real estate, FMCG, BFSI, healthcare, education, and e-commerce.
Can I choose specific metro stations for my ad campaign?
Yes. Brands can target high-traffic stations or areas based on footfall, demographics, and campaign goals.
How long does it take to get ad approvals from metro authorities?
On average, approvals can take 5 to 10 working days. It may vary based on the city and media format.
Is metro advertising available in Tier-2 cities?
Yes. Metro projects in cities like Bhopal, Nagpur, Kanpur, and Kochi are opening up new advertising opportunities.
Are there any long-term advertising packages?
Yes. You can opt for monthly, quarterly, or annual campaigns with discounted rates and premium visibility.
Can iDroid help with creative design as well?
Absolutely. Our in-house design team crafts creatives that are attractive, policy-compliant, and optimized for metro environments.