Hyderabad Metro: The Art of Looting, One Ticket at a Time

If you thought the Hyderabad Metro was here to make your life easier, think again. The real magic trick is how it empties your wallet, all while smiling and calling it “affordable public transport.” Let’s take a ride through the latest fare hike circus and see how passengers are being taken for a very expensive spin.

The Grand Fare Hike—With “Discounts”!

Starting May 2025, Hyderabad Metro decided it was time to “reward” loyal passengers with a fare hike of up to 25%. Yes, the base fare jumped from ₹10 to ₹12, and the maximum fare soared from ₹60 to ₹75[4][5][7][8]. Of course, they threw in a 10% discount on the increased prices, as if that would make anyone feel better about paying more for the same ride[1][6].

So now, a short trip of up to 2 km costs ₹11, and if you dare to travel across the city, it’s ₹69. That’s almost the price of a decent lunch—so you can choose: eat, or commute[6].

The “Expert” Committee’s Balancing Act

To make it all sound official, a Fare Fixation Committee led by a retired judge was formed. Their job? To find the perfect “balance” between affordability and financial sustainability[2][4][5]. Translation: how much can we squeeze from passengers before they revolt? The committee’s decision is binding—so don’t bother complaining, just pay up.

First Hike in Seven Years—So It Must Be Okay?

Metro officials love to remind everyone that this is the first fare hike since 2017[4][5][8]. Apparently, we should all be grateful that we got “looted” at old rates for so long. And now, with “rising operational costs” and “pandemic losses,” the only solution is to make passengers pay more. Never mind that over five lakh people rely on the metro every day—clearly, their wallets are the best way to fix the Metro’s ₹6,500 crore losses[4][5].

Creative Math: Discount on a Hike

Here’s the best part: after hiking the fares, the Metro offers a 10% discount on the increased rates[1][6]. It’s like raising the price of a samosa to ₹30, then “generously” selling it for ₹27. Passengers are supposed to feel lucky, but their bank accounts know better.

What Do Commuters Get?

For these new, improved prices, you still get the same old crowded trains and the same number of coaches. Many passengers have pointed out that instead of hiking fares, the Metro should first add more coaches and improve capacity[5]. But why invest in comfort when you can just collect more money?

The Final Stop: Looting, But Make It Legal

Hyderabad Metro has mastered the art of taking more while giving the same. So next time you tap your card, remember: you’re not just paying for a ride—you’re funding the most creative looting operation in the city. Enjoy your journey, and don’t forget to thank the Metro for the “discount”!

Citations:

[1] [PDF] HYDERABAD METRO RAIL'S REVISED FARE CHART WITH 10 ... https://ltmetro.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Hyderabad-Metro-Rail-Revised-Fare-Chart-Final.pdf

[2] [PDF] 15-05-2025-Press-Release-Hyderabad-Metro-Rail-Fare-Revision ... https://ltmetro.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/15-05-2025-Press-Release-Hyderabad-Metro-Rail-Fare-Revision-Effective-from-17th-May-2025-Final.pdf

[3] Hyderabad Metro Fare & Ticketing Information | HMR https://ltmetro.com/fare-ticketing/

[4] Hyderabad metro fares to increase by up to 25% starting May 17 https://www.indiatoday.in/information/story/hyderabad-metro-fares-to-increase-by-up-to-25-starting-may-17-2725708-2025-05-16

[5] Hyderabad Metro rail fares up steep 25%, new charges to hit 5 lakh ... https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/hyderabad/metro-fares-up-steep-25-new-charges-from-may-17/articleshow/121196159.cms

[6] Hyderabad Metro Releases Revised Fare Chart; New Rates ... https://www.timesnownews.com/hyderabad/hyderabad-metro-releases-revised-fare-chart-new-rates-effective-from-may-24-check-prices-article-151706710

[7] Metro Fare Increase Begins Today in Hyderabad - AP7AM https://www.ap7am.com/en/101046/metro-fare-increase-begins-today-in-hyderabad

[8] Hyderabad Metro Fare Hike by 25%: Minimum-Maximum Price and ... https://www.magicbricks.com/news/hyderabad-metro-fare-hike-new-rates-and-effective-date/140084.html