Is MMRDA planning to apprach SC over Metro fare fixation?

Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) seems to be unhappy with the report submitted by Fare Fixation Committee to Mumbai Metro One Private Limited (MMOPL) which might allow the operator of the 11.07 km Versova-Andheri-Ghatkopar (VAG) Metro line one to increase fares and may be contemplating approaching the Supreme Court in the matter.

It is said that the FFC in its report submitted to MMOPL on Thursday evening had stated that the operator could increase the fares rates between Rs 10 and Rs 110. At present the commuters using the VAG Metro corridor pay fares of Rs 10, Rs 20, Rs 30 and Rs 40. Around 2.8 lakh passengers use the VAG metro everyday and so it might not increase the fares substantially but it might gradually increase the rates.

When mid-day asked a senior MMRDA official about the report, the official said, "I have read about the same in the news reports and given by what I have read, I would like to say that this is not acceptable at all and we would approach the supreme court against the same."

The MMRDA official also claimed that they had even demanded a copy of the report from MMOPL, but MMRDA was told that only one copy had been provided. The MMRDA has also written to MMOPL to provide a copy of the report.

Sources from MMRDA requesting anonymity claimed that two of the FFC members had mentioned observations from side of the MMOPL but one of the member has said that fares should be less and affordable.

What MMOPL has to say?

MMOPL spokesperson said, "MMOPL is examining the FFC Report submitted on 8th July, and will work towards phased implementation of the FFC recommendations, with gradual fare increases together with the mitigating impact of potential real estate development and subsidy from the State Govt., and keeping in mind at all times the overall interest of our valued commuters."