At a time when commuters strongly feel the fares of the Metro rail services are exorbitant, Chennai Metro Rail Ltd. (CMRL) plans to charge double the normal rates for the special class rake.
The fares for the special class coach range between Rs.20 and Rs.80 and that of the regular class, between Rs.10 and Rs. 40.
But the only difference between the normal and special class is that the latter will have cushioned seats. CMRL officials said the special class — one rake on every train — will also have takers when the ridership picks up. “There are people who may not want to travel in the regular class when it is crowded; this rake will cater to them,” he added. When asked how the authorities would find out if commuters buy a regular ticket and enter the special class rake, the official said there would be surprise checks everyday. “There are different travel cards and tokens for the special class rakes. Also, the inspection staff will have ticket readers to check the validity and balance of the card or token,” he added. Since the service from Koyambedu to Alandur was launched only on Monday, it is not clear if there are many takers for the special class rakes. About one lakh people have used the services since Monday.
Fares for special class coach range between Rs.20 and Rs.80 and that of the regular class, between Rs.10 and Rs. 40.
