Pune: Concerns have been raised over the proposed fare structure of Metro Line 3 (Pink Line), as some residents argued the new corridor could become unaffordable for a large section of daily commuters.Sachin Londhe, president of the Pimpri Chinchwad Cooperative Housing Societies Federation, urged Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) and the Metro operator to reconsider the fares, particularly the proposed maximum fare of Rs 62 for travel between Hinjewadi and District Court. “Pune Metro 3 should not become a premium transport service. It has to be an affordable public transport option for every working citizen,” he said.In a representation to the authorities, Londhe said the existing Pune Metro charges around Rs27 for the approximately 15km Ramwadi-Vanaz journey, while the proposed fare for the 23km Hinjewadi-District Court stretch is Rs62. He said the difference warranted a review and suggested that the maximum fare be rationalised to Rs40-50, subject to an assessment of operating costs and the concession agreement.PMRDA authorities are yet to make any commitment on reviewing the fares.Not just software professionals, security guards, housekeeping staff, technicians, office support personnel, shop employees and other workers employed in Hinjewadi, Wakad, Baner and adjoining areas were also potential users of the Metro Line 3 corridor, members of the federation said. “Many of them currently depend on PMPML buses and other conventional modes of transport. A higher Metro fare could discourage us from switching to the new service,” said a worker.Londhe said homebuyers in Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad contributed towards Metro infrastructure through the Metro cess levied on property transactions. “Affordable fares could help attract higher ridership, encourage people to leave their private vehicles at home and reduce congestion on roads leading to the IT hub. An expensive Metro with lower passenger utilisation could undermine the objective of creating a sustainable public transport network,” he said.The federation in its representation urged the authorities to introduce affordable monthly commuter passes and employee travel packages, besides reviewing the fare structure before operations began.
About The Author
