The last fare revision occurred in 2017, but with growing footfall and an expanding network, the city’s metro system may soon become costlier for regular users.
The cost of travelling on Bengaluru’s Namma Metro is set to rise, with the Fare Fixation Committee (FFC) preparing to submit a report recommending a fare hike in the coming days. The committee, which invited public suggestions earlier, is expected to propose an increase in metro fares by 10 to 15 per cent. This could affect both daily commuters and occasional travellers who rely on the metro system for convenient transport.
Current Fare Structure and Discounted Rates
At present, the Bengaluru Metro offers a fare range from Rs 10 to Rs 60, depending on the distance travelled. Commuters using smart cards benefit from a 5 per cent discount on the standard fare. The last fare revision occurred in 2017, but with growing footfall and an expanding network, the city’s metro system may soon become costlier for regular users.
Fare Fixation Committee’s Review Process
A three-member committee, led by Justice R. Tharani, a retired judge of the Madras High Court, has been formed to evaluate the metro fare structure. The committee also includes Satyendra Pal Singh, Additional Secretary at the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, and EV Ramana Reddy, the former Additional Chief Secretary of Karnataka. The team has carefully reviewed metro fare structures in cities both within India and abroad to ensure that any fare changes are equitable and justified.
The committee is expected to submit its report soon, detailing its findings and suggestions for revising the metro fares. The aim is to create a balanced approach that considers both the financial sustainability of the metro system and the convenience of commuters.
Increased Ridership and Growing Demand for Trains
Since the last fare hike in 2017, Bengaluru’s metro system has seen a substantial increase in both ridership and coverage. The city’s metro network, now approximately 76 kilometres long, is the second-largest metro system in India, following New Delhi. In particular, the Purple Line, which connects various parts of East Bengaluru, has become a critical mode of transport for thousands of IT workers and daily commuters.
The growing number of passengers during peak hours has led to overcrowding, especially on the Purple Line, prompting calls for more trains to be added to the network. The pressure on the metro system has been mounting, with the demand for improved services increasing as the city continues to grow.
While the proposed fare hike could provide necessary funds for the expansion and upkeep of Bengaluru’s metro system, it has also raised concerns among commuters about affordability. As the cost of living continues to rise, any fare increase could affect the financial burden on daily commuters who rely on the metro as an affordable and reliable mode of transportation.
What’s Next for Namma Metro?
As the Fare Fixation Committee finalises its report, commuters and stakeholders will be closely watching the developments. With Bengaluru’s metro system playing a crucial role in reducing traffic congestion and offering a more sustainable transportation option, any decisions made will have a lasting impact on the city’s future transit landscape.
For now, all eyes remain on the committee’s recommendations, with many hoping for a fair and thoughtful approach to the proposed fare increase.
Source: financialexpress.com
