• Centre considering common regulator for metro fare fixation

    The Union Ministry of Urban Development is looking at appointing a common regulator for fare fixation for all metro projects. The proposal was discussed at a review meeting called by Urban Development Secretary Rajiv Gauba.

    Issues ranging from appointment of independent directors and chief vigilance officers, standardisation of equipment, bulk procurement, fare fixation, performance-based promotions, competitive bidding, security etc were discussed at the meeting, an official statement said.

    States to be consulted

    “It was decided that the views of respective States would be taken into consideration while taking a decision (on a common regulator),” the statement added.

    Officials of metro projects felt that since the losses on account of metro operations were to be borne by respective States under the law, their views need to be factored in while considering a common regulator.

    The Ministry has also asked all metro projects being built and operated with Centre’s equity to promote efficiency in procurement and while hiring manpower, the statement said.

    Independent directors

    Gauba urged all metro operators to ensure early appointment of independent directors on the boards, including at least one woman director as required under the Companies Act, 2013. He also called for early appointment of Chief Vigilance Officers by respective boards in consultation with Chief Vigilance Commissioner.

    Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has been directed to come out with a Draft Tender Document within three months to facilitate common bulk procurement of various equipment required by different metros to take advantage of economies of scale as done in the case of seven ultra mega power projects, it added. Slater Koekkoek Womens Jersey

    Share This
    Facebooktwitterlinkedinyoutube