This Article is From Jan 20, 2016

Kolkata Metro Contemplating Differential Fare

Kolkata Metro Contemplating Differential Fare

Metro Railway was also planning to introduce online recharge of metro card for the convenience of the passengers. (Representational Image)

Kolkata: Kolkata Metro is examining the feasibility of implementing differential fare during peak and off-peak hours to improve its finances.

"We are currently debating on differential pricing strategy," General Manager of Metro Rail, Kolkata, A K Kapoor said in Kolkata on Tuesday.

Differential pricing means commuters travelling during peak hours will have to pay more than those availing the service in the off-peak hours.

The Metro Rail official said the differential fare would, however, not be implemented right now.

He said operational loss is almost two-third of the revenue though Metro Railway has rationalised movement of the rakes in the full-route to reduce costs.

Speaking about the Garia-Airport metro link, Mr Kapoor said there have been issues of land acquisition of 2.8 hectares near Kavi Subhas and unauthorised structures at Mahisbathan at Salt lake area, which are posing to be hurdles on the way.

He said 84 new coaches are in the process of being procured from a Chinese vendor at an estimated cost of Rs 800 crore.

Metro Railway, he said, was also planning to introduce online recharge of metro card for the convenience of the passengers.

Meanwhile, Metro Railway took suggestions today for the coming railway budget after the Railway Minister desired to seek suggestions from journalists.
.