TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Facing increasing operational pressures, Taipei Metro (台北捷運) is projected to experience its first financial loss, estimated at NT$240 million, by 2025. The anticipated deficit is largely attributed to a 75% surge in electricity costs over the past three years, coupled with escalating labor expenses.
Despite these hurdles, Taipei Metro has decided against raising fares. Instead, it plans to modify frequent rider discounts from 70-90% to 85-95%, affecting around 300,000 passengers in the first half of 2024. Hu Cheng-lun (胡正倫), the head of Corporate Planning, mentioned that this adjustment is the least disruptive option for passengers.
In parallel, the company is exploring ways to boost revenue. This includes expanding commercial spaces and enhancing digital advertising at key stations like Taipei Main Station (台北車站) and Zhongshan Station (中山站), where Metro Corner offers a variety of shopping opportunities.
Professor Cheng Yung-hsiang (鄭永祥) from National Cheng Kung University's Department of Transportation and Communication Management Science (成功大學交通管理科學系) highlighted the necessity for Taipei Metro to establish adaptable mechanisms that reflect cost changes to maintain reasonable operational expenses.