In light of Delhi’s escalating air pollution crisis Delhi Public Transport Forum (PTF) and Greenpeace India Called delhi metro Railway Company (DMRC) implement “clean air concession“Making Metro fares more affordable during times of high air pollution. This initiative aims to reduce dependence on private cars and encourage citizens to opt for Delhi Metro, a cleaner and more efficient mode of transportation.
Delhi’s air quality has reached alarming levels, with AQI often entering the hazardous category. Different studies have shown that traffic emissions are one of the major causes of Delhi’s air pollution crisis. Emissions from private vehicles account for 51.5% of Delhi’s local emissions, exacerbating particulate matter (PM2.5) and nitrogen dioxide (NO2) levels.
According to a recent report by the Center for Science and Environment (CSE), public transport users face significantly higher travel costs than private car users, mainly due to hidden costs such as waiting and transfer times, especially for buses Travel by car. A comparison of the cost per kilometer of different modes of transport shows that buses cost Rs. 40 rupees/km, Metro Rs. 47/km, while the fee for two-wheelers and cars is Rs. 16/km and Rs. 35/km respectively. Furthermore, approximately 50% of public transport users spend 18% of their annual income on transport, while private car users spend only 12%.
Delhi grapples with ‘severe+’ air quality
“As Delhi grapples with high pollution issues, the Delhi Metro plays a vital role in providing affordable public transport to the people of Delhi. Aakiz Farooq, campaigner at Greenpeace India, said, Reducing fares, increasing frequency and extending peak hours during high pollution days in Delhi will encourage more people to use the Delhi Metro, thereby reducing dependence on private vehicle transport.
The proposed Clean Air Concession outlines measures to make public transport more accessible and attractive. It recommended lowering subway fares by 20-30% during periods of high air pollution to encourage people to abandon private cars. It is also recommended that train frequency be increased and peak travel times extended on high pollution days to cope with the expected increase in patronage and improve passenger convenience.
The need for more affordable public transport options to address environmental challenges is crucial given the city’s economic context. Currently, bus travel is free for women in Delhi and discounted passes are also available for students, disabled people and senior citizens. “Our research into the impact of free busing on women shows that one in four women started using the bus more frequently after the scheme was introduced. So making public transport more affordable or free can clearly have direct consequences for increasing its use. Benefits. Unfortunately, there is no such offer in Delhi Metro, making it more affordable for most of the city’s regular commuters. At least, the metro could reduce fares to incentivize people to use the metro during this season of hazardous air quality. Instead of cars and motorcycles an independent group of citizens.
Improving first- and last-mile connectivity is another priority. The proposal urges the DMRC to reintroduce and expand metro feeder bus services and collaborate with initiatives like the Delhi government’s Mohalla Bus Scheme to ensure better access to metro stations, especially in underserved areas. Additionally, it advocates for a fully integrated public transport system in Delhi with seamless travel between buses, metros and paratransit systems to remove commuter barriers.
Public awareness campaigns conducted by DMRC can also play a vital role in encouraging citizens to choose eco-friendly modes of transport. Finally, the proposal highlights the importance of maintaining healthy indoor air quality at metro stations during periods of high pollution to ensure safe travel for passengers.
The organizations stressed that the Delhi Metro, as the lifeline of the city, is uniquely positioned to play a transformative role in solving the air pollution crisis. Taking these steps will not only enhance mobility but also be in line with Delhi’s vision of creating a sustainable and liveable urban environment.
