Hyderabad: In a renewed appeal to the state government, Hyderabad Metro Rail Limited (HMRL) has sought permission to raise passenger fares, citing continued financial distress. Despite previous efforts to address its losses, the firm remains in deficit and is now pushing for an urgent fare revision to stabilise its operations.
Sources within HMRL revealed that the company has been operating at a loss for several months and had previously approached the government seeking a fare hike. However, that request was turned down. Now, with financial pressures mounting, HMRL has submitted a fresh proposal to increase fares, in hopes of implementing the new pricing structure as early as the second week of May, should the government grant approval.
Currently, metro fares range from ₹10 to ₹60 depending on the distance travelled. Under the proposed revision, the minimum fare would rise to ₹15 while the maximum would increase to ₹75. Company officials estimate that this move could generate an additional ₹150 crore in annual revenue.
In anticipation of the fare hike and as part of broader cost-recovery measures, HMRL recently discontinued the ₹59 Holiday Saver Card, which was aimed at casual passengers. Additionally, a 10 per cent discount that was previously offered during peak hours has also been withdrawn.
The metro operator argues that the fare adjustments are necessary not only to manage operational expenses but also to maintain service quality and expand infrastructure in the long term. However, any fare revision will depend on approval from the Telangana government, which has yet to make a final decision.
The proposed hike could impact thousands of daily commuters, potentially sparking public debate over affordability and the government’s role in supporting urban transport.