Metro panel plans Asia trip to study fares

The Delhi Metro Fare Fixation Committee, set up by the the Union urban development ministry, is planning to go to Hong Kong, Tokyo and Taipei to study their metro fare structures. The Committee, headed by Justice M.L. Mehta (Retd), has sent a proposal to this effect to Delhi government and the Centre for approval. The Committee members would study fare fixation pattern of these cities that will be the base for the fare structure in Delhi Metro.

A source said that the committee members want to go abroad from August 6 to 11 to study the Metro fare structure. All tour related expenses would reportedly be borne by the Delhi Metro. Two Delhi Metro officials would also accompany the three members of the committee. The other members of the fare fixation committee are Delhi chief secretary K.K. Sharma and additional secretary (urban development ministry) Durga Shankar Mishra. The committee assumed the charge on June 9 and has to submit its report by September 8.

A senior officer said that Hong Kong Metro is considered one of the best Metro rail networks in the world, that’s why the committee has decided to visit Hong Kong and study their metro fare structure. “The committee will also study other revenue generation system of metro in these cities.”

Earlier, the Delhi Metro had issued notice inviting suggestions from the Metro passengers. The notices had been displayed at major interchange Metro stations, namely Rajiv Chowk, Kashmere Gate, Mandi House and Central Secretariat. One could also send suggestions either by mail or post to the Chairman, 4th Fare Fixation Committee. The last date for sending suggestions is June 30.

The last Fare Fixation Committee had submitted its recommendations on Metro fares in 2009.

The Delhi Metro’s fares were last revised in November 2009 when the minimum fare was revised to Rs 8 from Rs 6 while the maximum fare was revised to Rs 30 from Rs 22.