Bengaluru Metro Fare Increase: Commuters' Group Considering Boycott
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Synopsis
On February 17, the Bengaluru Metro Commuters' Forum may call for a boycott against the metro service due to a significant fare increase. They have given the BMRCL until February 23 to reduce fares or face a halt in metro travel for up to a week.
Key Takeaways
- Bengaluru Metro fare hike causing unrest among commuters.
- Commuters' Forum plans a boycott if ticket prices are not reduced.
- Gathering scheduled at Scouts and Guides Grounds.
- BMRCL claims loans are the reason for increased fares.
- Chief Minister urges BMRCL to reconsider the fare hike.
Bengaluru, Feb 17 (NationPress) In light of the significant increase in ticket fares, the Bengaluru Metro Commuters’ Forum is considering a potential boycott of Metro travel. Sources indicated that the decision may lead to a halt in using Metro services for a day or possibly extending up to a week.
Further insights revealed that the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has been given a deadline until Sunday (February 23) to announce a reduction in ticket prices; otherwise, the boycott will be initiated. The forum intends to make a formal announcement during a press conference on Wednesday.
Rajesh Bhat, a member of the Forum, communicated with the media, stating that a gathering of Metro commuters is scheduled to occur at the Scouts and Guides Grounds. The Metro passengers are expressing their frustration over this development. Neither the central nor state governments, nor the Metro authorities seem to be concerned. “We have already gathered thousands of signatures and submitted a memorandum to the BMRCL MD urging them to lower the fare,” Bhat shared.
“If our request is ignored, we will have no choice. The price of passes has also seen an increase. This Sunday, the gathering will take place, involving resident associations, student groups, youth federations, and Metro users,” Bhat elaborated.
Each day, the number of Metro travelers is declining. They plan to distribute pamphlets starting Tuesday, he mentioned.
BMRCL argues that lingering loans are causing the ticket fare increase. They assert that only management and operational costs should dictate fare adjustments. It is inappropriate to raise ticket prices merely due to the rise in interest rates. This organization serves the public, not private interests, Bhat asserted.
The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) is facing backlash over the fare increase. BMRCL previously announced plans to reassess the fare structure in response to commuter complaints regarding the over 100% rise in ticket prices for Metro services.
Even Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah urged the BMRCL last Thursday to reconsider the fare hike.
BMRCL stated there would be no alterations to the minimum (Rs 10) and maximum (Rs 90) ticket prices. If the ticket fares have surged by 100%, they will consider reductions, as stated. However, commuters remain dissatisfied, and footfall numbers continue to drop.
