Kochi Metro launches new student passes: Details

Kochi: The Kochi Metro Rail Limited (KMRL) has launched its new student pass programme amid widespread criticism for eliminating earlier plans. The new plan will come into effect on July 1. Priced at ₹1,100, the new 30-day travel package offers 33% savings on the average fare. Its key features include 50 trips from any station. The three-month pass is priced at ₹3,000.

KMRL said it has announced the plans in response to overwhelming demand from student unions, educational institutions, and various student bodies across the region. It said the KMRL's student pass offers significantly better value than other metro cities in India. "After receiving persistent requests from student unions, educational institutions, and various student representative bodies, KMRL has worked diligently to develop this affordable transportation solution," said Loknath Behera, Managing Director at KMRL. "With an average/mean trip cost of ₹33, students normally spend Rs 1,650 for 50 trips. Our Student Pass at Rs1,100 provides a substantial saving of Rs 550, making Kochi Metro one of India's most student-friendly metro passes."

The student pass will be available at all Kochi Metro stations starting July 1. Students should present valid student identity proof during purchase and may be required to show ID during travel to deter misuse. New students who have yet to be issued ID cards should produce an authorisation letter from the schools/ colleges/universities with the student’s photo affixed to the letter. The pass will be valid for 30 consecutive days from the activation date. It has to be recharged on the 31st day after the expiration of the pass. If the card is not usable due to wear and tear, an additional Rs 50 has to be paid for obtaining a new card. The pass will be available for students up to the age of 30 years. Any misuse of the pass will attract a severe penalty, KMRL said.