Hyderabad
It is going to be Bad news for Hyderabad Metro commuters. Metro rail fares are likely to rise further. Metro ticket charges are also likely to go up with the burden of rising electricity charges. The discoms are already ready to increase electricity charges in the state. With the decision of the discoms, the burden on the Hyderabad Metro Rail will increase.
L&T, the concessionaire of the project says the hike in metro fares is imminent if electricity tariffs are increased. As part of the hike in electricity tariffs, the Telangana State Electricity Distribution Company (TSSPDCL) has sent proposals to revise the Metro Rail electricity tariffs. Rs 1 per KVA will be increased under emergency charges. It is also prepared to raise another Rs .85 under the demand charge.
If the TSSPDCL proposals for fare hikes are implemented, the Metro Rail management burden will increase by up to 25 percent. Already reeling under losses, L&T is not in a position to bear the increased management burden. L&T representatives said they had already lodged objections to the Telangana State Electricity Regulatory Commission on proposals to amend electricity tariffs. Hyderabad Metro charges are already one of the highest in the country. If the hike happens again, it will be a big burden.