25% Metro discount proposed for senior citizens, disabled
The move is expected to reduce annual metro rail revenue by around Tk12 crore, equivalent to nearly 3% of the company’s total ticket income
The government is planning to offer a 25% discount on metro rail fares for senior citizens aged 65 and above and persons with disabilities in the 2026-27 fiscal budget.
The move is expected to reduce annual metro rail revenue by around Tk12 crore, equivalent to nearly 3% of the company's total ticket income.
The road transport and bridges ministry is also considering fare concessions for students in the next phase. However, the ministry said a final decision on student discounts would depend on the impact on Dhaka Mass Transit Company Limited's (DMTCL) revenue and operational management.
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To implement the proposed discount, the Road Transport and Highways Division has sought approval from the finance ministry.
Currently, passengers aged over 65 and persons with disabilities receive a 15% discount on single-trip metro rail tickets. Injured freedom fighters are allowed to travel free of charge.
The proposal aligns with the BNP's election manifesto and the government's 180-day action plan, both of which pledged to reduce travel costs for elderly passengers and people with disabilities or special needs.
According to the ministry's proposal, persons with disabilities or special needs will be eligible for the discount upon showing the "Subarna" identity card issued by the Ministry of Social Welfare, while senior citizens will need to present their national identity cards.
A road transport ministry official told TBS that the ministry had finalised the proposal for fare reductions for elderly and disabled passengers as part of the government's short-term action plan.
The official said the finance ministry's approval was required because the proposal involved revenue implications, and a letter seeking consent was sent on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, the government is considering several additional benefits for persons with disabilities in the upcoming budget. The finance minister's budget speech may include directives for allocating a specific portion of corporate social responsibility (CSR) funds to their welfare.
However, ministry officials expressed doubts over the implementation of such directives due to the absence of a national CSR policy.
