Cancer patients, disabled may not get Metro discount

Updated on: 19 June,2011 08:01 AM IST |
Ranjeet Jadhav | ranjeet.jadhav@mid-day.com

Even though the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has made provisions for discounts in the metro rail for the students and senior citizens

Even though the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has made provisions for discounts in the metro rail for the students and senior citizens, the state authorities are yet to take a decision if discount in metro rail fares should also be given to disabled persons and cancer patients.

Construction at the metro line in Ghatkoparu00a0 PIC/ Sayed
Sameer Abedi

Speaking to Sunday MiD DAY an MMRDA official said, "As per the agreement between the state and the consortium constructing the first metro rail between Versova, Andheri and Ghatkopar, fare discounts are limited for senior citizens and students only. We haven't decided whether categories like disabled persons and cancer patients will get discounts too."

Some of the MMRDA officials are of view that discounts should be given to disabled persons and cancer patients, since local trains do the same. As per the reworked plan, the minimum fare will be Rs 7, followed by the next slab of Rs 10 and Rs 12. Once a commuter purchases a ticket, then it would be valid for two hours.

Stored value card, trip passes and monthly passes that can be paid for by cash, credit and debit cards, will be sold. However, the integrated smart card system that can be used for all modes of transport of Mumbai, including public buses and suburban locals, is still being worked out. The first corridor of the metro rail is expected to be completed in mid-2012 and trials will be conducted in September this year.