Did Hyderabad Metro Just Announce a 10% Fare Discount on Increased Rates?

Hyderabad, May 20 (NationPress) The management of Hyderabad Metro Rail announced a 10 percent discount on the recently increased fares, which were implemented on May 17.

L&T Metro Rail (Hyderabad) Limited (L&TMRHL) revealed that this discount will apply to all fare zones across the three metro corridors, effective from May 24.

This decision comes after thorough consideration of passenger feedback, showcasing the organization’s commitment to enhancing commuter affordability while ensuring financial stability, as stated by the company.

Last week, a fare increase was announced, raising the minimum fare from Rs 10 to Rs 15 and the maximum fare from Rs 60, resulting in an approximate hike of 20 to 25 percent.

This marked the first fare increase in over seven and a half years since the project commenced.

L&TMRHL indicated that the fare revision was based on recommendations from the Fare Fixation Committee (FFC) and is part of a broader strategy aimed at ensuring the long-term viability of metro operations and maintenance.

However, many commuters reacted negatively to the fare hike, calling for a rollback. The opposition party, Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS), urged the government to intervene and absorb the fare increase on behalf of Hyderabad Metro Rail.

In response to public outcry, L&TMRHL has now introduced a 10 percent discount on the new fare structure.

This initiative demonstrates their commitment to addressing passenger concerns while sustaining operational viability.

"Although the fare adjustment was necessary for the sustainability of metro operations, we recognize the importance of lessening the financial burden on our valued passengers. In response to feedback, we are providing a 10 percent discount on the revised fares across all fare zones in all three metro corridors starting from May 24, 2025, highlighting our dedication to making daily commuting more affordable," stated L&TMRHL MD & CEO KVB Reddy.

The FFC, chaired by a former High Court Judge, was established by the Centre on September 5, 2002, and had recommended a new fare structure on January 25, 2023.

Two years prior, the FFC had suggested a two-stage fare increase within six months, but due to various reasons including general elections, the decision was postponed.

While announcing the fare hike, the company expressed that they could no longer delay this decision as losses have been increasing, indicating the need for funds to procure new metro trains and enhance service frequency during peak hours.