Delhi Metro lost 3L commuters daily, after Oct's fare-hike: RTI
The controversial fare hike in the Delhi Metro last month had resulted in a fall in ridership by up to three lakh daily, an RTI query has revealed. Ticket prices rose by Rs. 10 for almost all distance slabs in October, the second hike in five months. As a result, the number of daily riders fell from 27.4L in September to 24.2L in October.
Why did the Centre and DMRC want a hike?
According to MoS Housing and Urban Affairs Hardeep Singh Puri, a "world-class asset like the Delhi Metro" couldn't survive without charging fees. The last hike was in 2009, and unless another was undertaken, Delhi Metro's condition would be as bad as Delhi Transport Corporation's buses, he said. The DMRC said input costs had increased and the hike was at par with other cities.
Why did the AAP oppose the move?
The AAP-led Delhi government consistently criticized the hike as being "anti-people." They wrote to DMRC MD Mangu Singh that since he was "nominated" by the Delhi government, he should put forth their views in DMRC meetings. Deputy CM Manish Sisodia called it a "conspiracy" to help Ola and Uber. On October 9, the Delhi Assembly even passed a resolution against it.
What are the new rates after the hike?
Hiked fares eventually came into force from October 10: the new rates for journeys up to 2km are Rs. 10; 2-5km Rs. 20; 5-12km Rs. 30; 12-21km Rs. 40; 21-32km Rs. 50; and beyond 32km Rs. 60.
A similar effect was noticed after the previous hike
The earlier hike in May also had similar effects: average ridership fell from 26.5L (May) to 25.7L (June). However, DMRC said it was "natural" After the October hike, the Blue Line, considered the busiest, lost over 30L commuters. The issue of public transportation gained major focus recently as the capital battled toxic smog for a whole week.
