Delhi Metro Fare Hike News: Delhi Metro fare increased, now traveling will be expensive. DMRC increased the fare by 1 to 4 rupees. Covid losses, loan repayment and maintenance expenses were cited as the reason. New rates will be effective from Monday.
Covid losses and pressure to repay loans
A DMRC official said that in the year 2023-24, the metro had a loss of Rs 1,781.69 crore before tax. This loss is estimated to be around Rs 1,598 crore in 2024-25. This step had to be taken due to reasons like losses during the Corona period, repayment of Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) loan and maintenance of the structure.
What will be the new fare?
According to the new rates, the fare for a journey of 12 to 21 km has been increased from Rs 40 to Rs 43. The fare for a journey of 21 to 32 km has been increased from Rs 50 to Rs 54. The new fares will also be applicable on Sundays and national holidays. These days, for a journey of more than 32 km, you will have to pay Rs 54, which was Rs 50 earlier.
Airport Express Line also expensive
DMRC said that the fare on the Airport Express Line has also been increased by up to Rs 5. However, smart card holders will continue to get a 10% discount on every journey as before. An additional 10% discount will also continue during off-peak hours i.e. before 8 am, from 12 noon to 5 pm and after 9 pm.
DMRC’s stand on fare hike:
Describing this hike as “minimal”, DMRC said that it is necessary so that the expenses of timely repair of trains, salaries of employees and maintenance of infrastructure can be met. The corporation says that even today the fare of Delhi Metro is the lowest in the world.
