The Central Railway has experienced a notable shift in travel patterns, with a significant decrease in the daily average number of passengers while simultaneously observing a rise in revenue. The reason behind the surge in earnings despite decrease in ridership is the preference of commuters for higher class travel options post-Covid, explained senior railway officials.
“Comparing the current situation to the pre-Covid era, the CR has witnessed a decline of 6.36 lakh passengers in the daily average number of total passengers. However, despite this decrease, the daily average revenue has increased by Rs3.21 crore,” said an official.
Categorically speaking about the suburban segment, he further said that the daily average number of passengers stands at 37.01 lakh, reflecting a decrease of over five lakh passengers compared to the period in 2019-20. Despite the decline in suburban passengers, the daily average revenue from this segment has increased by Rs10 lakh.
Decrease of non-suburban passengers
Similarly, the number of non-suburban passengers on CR has also seen a decrease, with the current daily average at 4.94 lakh from 6.02 lakh in the pre-Covid era. Despite the decline in passenger numbers, the daily average revenue from non-suburban passengers has risen by Rs3.11 crore.
Transport expert AV Shenoy said that factors such as the adoption of work-from-home practices and increased reliance on technology in the post-Covid era have significantly influenced commuting habits. Individuals now have access to online services in both corporate and government sectors, enabling them to fulfill their requirements without unnecessary travel.
Experts weigh in
Paresh Rawal, a public policy analyst in the mobility domain, added to the discussion, stating that the conundrum of decreasing commuter numbers and rising revenue from passenger ticket sales can be attributed to the prioritization of safety and comfort in travel after Covid.
“Keeping in mind the changes in travel preferences, more air conditioned coaches are being added in the long-distance as well as AC local trains are being introduced,” said chief CR spokesperson.
Pre-COVID Era (2019-2020):
Daily average number of suburban passengers on CR- 42.29 lakh
Daily average number of non-suburban passengers on CR- 6.02 lakh passengers
Daily average number of total passengers on CR-48.31 lakh
Daily average revenue from non-suburban passengers on CR: Rs 12.73 crores
Daily average revenue from suburban passengers on CR: Rs 2.43 crores
Daily average total revenue including non-suburban and suburban passengers on CR: Rs 15.16 crores
Current Period:
Daily average number of suburban passengers on CR: 37.01 lakh
Daily average number of non-suburban passengers on CR: 4.94 lakh
Daily average number of total passengers on CR: 41.95 lakh
Daily average revenue from non-suburban passengers on CR: Rs 15.84 crores
Daily average revenue from suburban passengers on CR: Rs 2.53 crores
Daily average total revenue including non-suburban and suburban passengers on CR: Rs 18.37 crores
