Coming soon: LRT and Monorail fares hike

The warning light comes on signalling that one of the most important piece of machinery in your life is due for another round of refuelling but as you pull into your nearest petrol station, you find a snaking line – it’s the night before a petrol price hike.

Any driver who has queued up for one last full tank of petrol before a price hike can attest to the frustration of being in line after a long day at work, which explains why many regard public transportation as a real lifesaver in terms of time and cost saving.

Bad news for the latter, as LRT and Monorail fares hike is expected in 2014 in light of the increased in electricity tariffs which takes effect on January 1, 2014. According to the Land Public Transport Commission’s (SPAD) chairman, Tan Sri Syed Hamid Albar, the fares for KTM will also be reviewed.

Also according to Syed Hamid Albar, Singapore has adjusted its rail fares seven times since 2003 and Bangkok’s Skytrain fare is set to go up by 25% this year. While this puts the proposed hike of LRT and Monorail fares into perspective, there is no denying the fact that with other proposed hikes in 2014, commuters are going to feel the pinch from the rising cost of living.

Concession Fares are Available

However, the situation may not be as dire as one might think – especially not for students, senior citizens, and individuals with disabilities.  Primary, secondary, college and university students are entitled to apply for a monthly Rapidpass Pelajar Integrasi card which can be used for unlimited rides on RapidKL buses, LRT, and Monorail for RM100 a month.

Touch ‘n Go Concession Cards are also available for senior citizens and individuals with sight, hearing, psychiatric, speech, learning, and other physical disabilities. These cards offer discounted fares on RapidKL buses, LRT, and Monorail and are issued for free.

For other daily commuters that do not qualify for any of the above cards however, discounted fares either by way of monthly passes or periodic promotions to shopping or business centres can lighten heavy financial burdens.