June 5, 2026

NEW DELHI: Former Tamil Nadu BJP chief K Annamalai’s newly launched political movement, “We The Leaders”, appears to have struck an immediate chord, attracting more than 7 lakh volunteers within hours of its launch after he formally quit the BJP on Friday.Calling on people passionate about “education, health, sustainability, or youth leadership” to join, Annamalai unveiled the movement as the beginning of a new political journey aimed at building what he described as “common man politics”.Sharing the website link on X, the former IPS officer wrote, “Let’s step up, take action, and be the change. Join here to begin our political movement!”According to the movement’s website, more than 7.65 lakh volunteers and over 50 grassroots leaders had joined within hours of its launch, signalling strong early interest in Annamalai’s new initiative. Annamalai earlier clarified that the movement is called “We The Leaders” and announced that the APJ Abdul Kalam Centre for Ethics and Politics, based in Coimbatore, would function as an institution within the movement.The initiative is built around what it calls the “Conscious Constituency Approach”, which seeks to combine technology-driven governance with grassroots participation.”At We The Leaders Foundation, we believe in a governance model that is rooted in conscious leadership, community engagement, and data-driven decision-making. The Conscious Constituency Approach is designed to bridge the gap between technological advancements and human-centric leadership, ensuring inclusive, sustainable, and impactful development in every constituency,” the website states.Announcing his departure from the BJP, Annamalai said he wanted to promote a “growth-oriented and culturally rooted” politics in Tamil Nadu and move away from what he described as “cult and dynastic” politics.The 42-year-old leader said his movement would not be centred around personalities but around ideas.”Let’s change ourselves, and change will happen naturally… the movement’s core principle is let’s change, let’s bring change (maruvom, maatruvom),” he said in a social media address.Expressing his desire to move away from “cult politics”, Annamalai said he would instead build a “common man” politics that prioritises people’s needs.At the same time, he insisted that the movement was not being launched to directly challenge existing parties.”We are not here to compete with anyone. Let the ruling party and the opposition parties exist. They can express their policies, and we will express ours in due time,” he said.”Our politics is not for the sake of opposing. How we view the DMK, AIADMK, NTK, Seeman (NTK founder), Anbumani (PMK leader), G K Vasan (TMC Moopanar), A C Shanmugam, Paarivendhar, John Pandian, Krishnasamy, Vaiko, Premalatha madam – in Tamil Nadu, is exactly how I will view the Bharatiya Janata Party,” he added.Annamalai said his decision to quit the BJP was taken after discussions with senior party leaders, including Union home minister Amit Shah.He claimed he had informed the BJP leadership of his intention to resign nearly 18 months ago but delayed the move until after fulfilling his election-related responsibilities.”It was a great conflict whether I am a BJP person or a Tamilian. I told the party on December 4, 2024, that I am going to resign. The party asked me to finish the elections and then go,” he said.Describing his exit as consistent with Tamil cultural values, he added, “Even when leaving, stating it respectfully and leaving is our virtue.”Looking ahead, he outlined plans to build organisational strength before transitioning into formal party politics. He also said he would continue to prioritise Tamil Nadu’s interests while maintaining his identity as both a proud Tamilian and an Indian.In his resignation letter dated June 2 and addressed to Tamil Nadu BJP president Nitin Nabin, Annamalai wrote, “I do not want to burden the top leadership any further with my ongoing thoughts on the way forward for a growth-oriented and culturally rooted politics in Tamil Nadu.”His departure comes amid growing speculation about his political future following the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, where actor-turned-politician Vijay emerged as a significant force, outperforming several established political players in the state.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosShehbaz Sharif Hails Trump As ‘Man Of Peace’, Credits Him For India-Pakistan CeasefireTMC Crisis Could Boost NDA’s Numbers For Delimitation, One Nation One Election Bills | WatchAmid NEET Paper Leak Row, IIT Roorkee Denies JEE Advanced Data Breach AllegationsThree Civilians Killed, Seven Houses Torched In Suspected Militant Attack In ManipurMohali Woman Stabbed To Death By Ex-Partner At Workplace; Accused Attempts SuicidePutin Says US Pressure On PM Modi Is ‘Useless’, India-US Ties Won’t Affect Russia RelationsPM Modi-Rodriguez Talks Signal India’s Push For Long-Term Energy Partnership With VenezuelaIndia And UK Deepen Strategic Ties As Yvette Cooper’s Maiden Visit Delivers Key AgreementsRBI Maintains Repo Rate At 5.25%, Flags Inflation Threats And Lowers FY27 Growth Projection To 6.6%’I Like Modi A Lot’: Trump Signals Breakthrough In India-US Trade Negotiations | Watch123PhotostoriesPsychology says emotionally exhausted people don’t always cry — they start saying “it’s fine”Six Signs That Guardian Angels Guide YouWhich lucky charm should you place on your office desk; based on your date of birth?8 everyday habits that build strong problem-solving skills in kidsSonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal’s penthouse is a relaxing abode of minimalism with bright bohemian colours: Art inspirations to steal8 parenting habits that help kids become independent thinkersWhich plant should you bring home for the positive vibes; based on your birth date7 locations in India where smart city initiatives are reshaping real estate9 iconic snakes of India’s Western and Eastern GhatsPediatrician shares 6 common household items that make many children land up at emergencies123Hot PicksRBI policyAkanksha ChaturvediCM VijayRBI foreign investorKCET result 2026UAE salaryNEET UG 2026 re-exam city slipGreater Kailash fireK AnnamalaiTop TrendingCM VijayDelhi Greater Kailash FireRBI MPC Meeting 2026K AnnamalaiMohali Office MurderMamata BanerjeeIndian RupeeTCS Nashik CaseDelhi Plice HCM Result 2026Pawan Kalyan

Vamsikrishna04 mins mins
NEW DELHI: Former Tamil Nadu BJP chief K Annamalai’s newly launched political movement, “We The Leaders”, appears to have struck an immediate chord, attracting more than 7 lakh volunteers within hours of its launch after he formally quit the BJP on Friday.Calling on people passionate about “education, health, sustainability, or youth leadership” to join, Annamalai unveiled the movement as the beginning of a new political journey aimed at building what he described as “common man politics”.Sharing the website link on X, the former IPS officer wrote, “Let’s step up, take action, and be the change. Join here to begin our political movement!”According to the movement’s website, more than 7.65 lakh volunteers and over 50 grassroots leaders had joined within hours of its launch, signalling strong early interest in Annamalai’s new initiative. Annamalai earlier clarified that the movement is called “We The Leaders” and announced that the APJ Abdul Kalam Centre for Ethics and Politics, based in Coimbatore, would function as an institution within the movement.The initiative is built around what it calls the “Conscious Constituency Approach”, which seeks to combine technology-driven governance with grassroots participation.”At We The Leaders Foundation, we believe in a governance model that is rooted in conscious leadership, community engagement, and data-driven decision-making. The Conscious Constituency Approach is designed to bridge the gap between technological advancements and human-centric leadership, ensuring inclusive, sustainable, and impactful development in every constituency,” the website states.Announcing his departure from the BJP, Annamalai said he wanted to promote a “growth-oriented and culturally rooted” politics in Tamil Nadu and move away from what he described as “cult and dynastic” politics.The 42-year-old leader said his movement would not be centred around personalities but around ideas.”Let’s change ourselves, and change will happen naturally… the movement’s core principle is let’s change, let’s bring change (maruvom, maatruvom),” he said in a social media address.Expressing his desire to move away from “cult politics”, Annamalai said he would instead build a “common man” politics that prioritises people’s needs.At the same time, he insisted that the movement was not being launched to directly challenge existing parties.”We are not here to compete with anyone. Let the ruling party and the opposition parties exist. They can express their policies, and we will express ours in due time,” he said.”Our politics is not for the sake of opposing. How we view the DMK, AIADMK, NTK, Seeman (NTK founder), Anbumani (PMK leader), G K Vasan (TMC Moopanar), A C Shanmugam, Paarivendhar, John Pandian, Krishnasamy, Vaiko, Premalatha madam – in Tamil Nadu, is exactly how I will view the Bharatiya Janata Party,” he added.Annamalai said his decision to quit the BJP was taken after discussions with senior party leaders, including Union home minister Amit Shah.He claimed he had informed the BJP leadership of his intention to resign nearly 18 months ago but delayed the move until after fulfilling his election-related responsibilities.”It was a great conflict whether I am a BJP person or a Tamilian. I told the party on December 4, 2024, that I am going to resign. The party asked me to finish the elections and then go,” he said.Describing his exit as consistent with Tamil cultural values, he added, “Even when leaving, stating it respectfully and leaving is our virtue.”Looking ahead, he outlined plans to build organisational strength before transitioning into formal party politics. He also said he would continue to prioritise Tamil Nadu’s interests while maintaining his identity as both a proud Tamilian and an Indian.In his resignation letter dated June 2 and addressed to Tamil Nadu BJP president Nitin Nabin, Annamalai wrote, “I do not want to burden the top leadership any further with my ongoing thoughts on the way forward for a growth-oriented and culturally rooted politics in Tamil Nadu.”His departure comes amid growing speculation about his political future following the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, where actor-turned-politician Vijay emerged as a significant force, outperforming several established political players in the state.About the AuthorTOI News DeskThe TOI News Desk comprises a dedicated and tireless team of journalists who operate around the clock to deliver the most current and comprehensive news and updates to the readers of The Times of India worldwide. With an unwavering commitment to excellence in journalism, our team is at the forefront of gathering, verifying, and presenting breaking news, in-depth analysis, and insightful reports on a wide range of topics. The TOI News Desk is your trusted source for staying informed and connected to the ever-evolving global landscape, ensuring that our readers are equipped with the latest developments that matter most.”Read MoreEnd of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosShehbaz Sharif Hails Trump As ‘Man Of Peace’, Credits Him For India-Pakistan CeasefireTMC Crisis Could Boost NDA’s Numbers For Delimitation, One Nation One Election Bills | WatchAmid NEET Paper Leak Row, IIT Roorkee Denies JEE Advanced Data Breach AllegationsThree Civilians Killed, Seven Houses Torched In Suspected Militant Attack In ManipurMohali Woman Stabbed To Death By Ex-Partner At Workplace; Accused Attempts SuicidePutin Says US Pressure On PM Modi Is ‘Useless’, India-US Ties Won’t Affect Russia RelationsPM Modi-Rodriguez Talks Signal India’s Push For Long-Term Energy Partnership With VenezuelaIndia And UK Deepen Strategic Ties As Yvette Cooper’s Maiden Visit Delivers Key AgreementsRBI Maintains Repo Rate At 5.25%, Flags Inflation Threats And Lowers FY27 Growth Projection To 6.6%’I Like Modi A Lot’: Trump Signals Breakthrough In India-US Trade Negotiations | Watch123PhotostoriesPsychology says emotionally exhausted people don’t always cry — they start saying “it’s fine”Six Signs That Guardian Angels Guide YouWhich lucky charm should you place on your office desk; based on your date of birth?8 everyday habits that build strong problem-solving skills in kidsSonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal’s penthouse is a relaxing abode of minimalism with bright bohemian colours: Art inspirations to steal8 parenting habits that help kids become independent thinkersWhich plant should you bring home for the positive vibes; based on your birth date7 locations in India where smart city initiatives are reshaping real estate9 iconic snakes of India’s Western and Eastern GhatsPediatrician shares 6 common household items that make many children land up at emergencies123Hot PicksRBI policyAkanksha ChaturvediCM VijayRBI foreign investorKCET result 2026UAE salaryNEET UG 2026 re-exam city slipGreater Kailash fireK AnnamalaiTop TrendingCM VijayDelhi Greater Kailash FireRBI MPC Meeting 2026K AnnamalaiMohali Office MurderMamata BanerjeeIndian RupeeTCS Nashik CaseDelhi Plice HCM Result 2026Pawan Kalyan


7.6L volunteers within hours: Annamalai's 'political movement' becomes an instant hit

NEW DELHI: Former Tamil Nadu BJP chief K Annamalai’s newly launched political movement, “We The Leaders”, appears to have struck an immediate chord, attracting more than 7 lakh volunteers within hours of its launch after he formally quit the BJP on Friday.Calling on people passionate about “education, health, sustainability, or youth leadership” to join, Annamalai unveiled the movement as the beginning of a new political journey aimed at building what he described as “common man politics”.Sharing the website link on X, the former IPS officer wrote, “Let’s step up, take action, and be the change. Join here to begin our political movement!”According to the movement’s website, more than 7.65 lakh volunteers and over 50 grassroots leaders had joined within hours of its launch, signalling strong early interest in Annamalai’s new initiative. Annamalai earlier clarified that the movement is called “We The Leaders” and announced that the APJ Abdul Kalam Centre for Ethics and Politics, based in Coimbatore, would function as an institution within the movement.The initiative is built around what it calls the “Conscious Constituency Approach”, which seeks to combine technology-driven governance with grassroots participation.“At We The Leaders Foundation, we believe in a governance model that is rooted in conscious leadership, community engagement, and data-driven decision-making. The Conscious Constituency Approach is designed to bridge the gap between technological advancements and human-centric leadership, ensuring inclusive, sustainable, and impactful development in every constituency,” the website states.Announcing his departure from the BJP, Annamalai said he wanted to promote a “growth-oriented and culturally rooted” politics in Tamil Nadu and move away from what he described as “cult and dynastic” politics.The 42-year-old leader said his movement would not be centred around personalities but around ideas.“Let’s change ourselves, and change will happen naturally… the movement’s core principle is let’s change, let’s bring change (maruvom, maatruvom),” he said in a social media address.Expressing his desire to move away from “cult politics”, Annamalai said he would instead build a “common man” politics that prioritises people’s needs.At the same time, he insisted that the movement was not being launched to directly challenge existing parties.“We are not here to compete with anyone. Let the ruling party and the opposition parties exist. They can express their policies, and we will express ours in due time,” he said.“Our politics is not for the sake of opposing. How we view the DMK, AIADMK, NTK, Seeman (NTK founder), Anbumani (PMK leader), G K Vasan (TMC Moopanar), A C Shanmugam, Paarivendhar, John Pandian, Krishnasamy, Vaiko, Premalatha madam – in Tamil Nadu, is exactly how I will view the Bharatiya Janata Party,” he added.Annamalai said his decision to quit the BJP was taken after discussions with senior party leaders, including Union home minister Amit Shah.He claimed he had informed the BJP leadership of his intention to resign nearly 18 months ago but delayed the move until after fulfilling his election-related responsibilities.“It was a great conflict whether I am a BJP person or a Tamilian. I told the party on December 4, 2024, that I am going to resign. The party asked me to finish the elections and then go,” he said.Describing his exit as consistent with Tamil cultural values, he added, “Even when leaving, stating it respectfully and leaving is our virtue.”Looking ahead, he outlined plans to build organisational strength before transitioning into formal party politics. He also said he would continue to prioritise Tamil Nadu’s interests while maintaining his identity as both a proud Tamilian and an Indian.In his resignation letter dated June 2 and addressed to Tamil Nadu BJP president Nitin Nabin, Annamalai wrote, “I do not want to burden the top leadership any further with my ongoing thoughts on the way forward for a growth-oriented and culturally rooted politics in Tamil Nadu.”His departure comes amid growing speculation about his political future following the Tamil Nadu Assembly elections, where actor-turned-politician Vijay emerged as a significant force, outperforming several established political players in the state.



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Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit New Delhi: Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, an ace fighter and a highly experienced test pilot, has been appointed the next Vice Chief of the Air Staff. He will assume his new charge on July 1.Currently, the Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (CISC) at Headquarters, Integrated Defence Staff, the officer has played a key role in enhancing the jointness in the defence forces as they move towards theaterisation. Air Marshal Dixit, who played a key role in modernisation of the force, has also been instrumental in promoting indigenous fighter projects in the IAF during his different stints in the Air Headquarters.His appointment brings a wealth of operational and testing expertise to the top leadership of the IAF.He is a qualified flying instructor and an experimental test pilot with over 3,300 hours of flying experience on over 20 types of aircraft, including Mirage-2000, MiG-21 & Jaguar. Air Marshal Dixit commanded a Mirage 2000 Squadron, a frontline fighter base in the western sector, as well as a premier fighter training base. He participated in Operation Safed Sagar and Rakshak.Earlier, he was also Air Defence Commander of Southern Air Command and was Senior Air Staff Officer, South Western Air Command.As a test pilot and later Commanding Officer of the Flight Test Squadron at Aircraft and Systems Testing Establishment, Bangalore, he was involved in several indigenous upgrades and development programmes, including the avionics upgrades for Jaguar & MiG-27.As director of Air Staff Requirements, he played a key role in the planning and conduct of the medium multi-role combat aircraft trials.Air Marshal was commissioned into the fighter stream of the IAF on Dec 6, 1986. He is an alumnus of National Defence Academy, Khadakwasla; Defence Services Staff College (Bangladesh) and National Defence College, New Delhi.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosShehbaz Sharif Hails Trump As ‘Man Of Peace’, Credits Him For India-Pakistan CeasefireTMC Crisis Could Boost NDA’s Numbers For Delimitation, One Nation One Election Bills | WatchAmid NEET Paper Leak Row, IIT Roorkee Denies JEE Advanced Data Breach AllegationsThree Civilians Killed, Seven Houses Torched In Suspected Militant Attack In ManipurMohali Woman Stabbed To Death By Ex-Partner At Workplace; Accused Attempts SuicidePutin Says US Pressure On PM Modi Is ‘Useless’, India-US Ties Won’t Affect Russia RelationsPM Modi-Rodriguez Talks Signal India’s Push For Long-Term Energy Partnership With VenezuelaIndia And UK Deepen Strategic Ties As Yvette Cooper’s Maiden Visit Delivers Key AgreementsRBI Maintains Repo Rate At 5.25%, Flags Inflation Threats And Lowers FY27 Growth Projection To 6.6%’I Like Modi A Lot’: Trump Signals Breakthrough In India-US Trade Negotiations | Watch123PhotostoriesPsychology says emotionally exhausted people don’t always cry — they start saying “it’s fine”Six Signs That Guardian Angels Guide YouWhich lucky charm should you place on your office desk; based on your date of birth?8 everyday habits that build strong problem-solving skills in kidsSonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal’s penthouse is a relaxing abode of minimalism with bright bohemian colours: Art inspirations to steal8 parenting habits that help kids become independent thinkersWhich plant should you bring home for the positive vibes; based on your birth date7 locations in India where smart city initiatives are reshaping real estate9 iconic snakes of India’s Western and Eastern GhatsPediatrician shares 6 common household items that make many children land up at emergencies123Hot PicksRBI policyAkanksha ChaturvediCM VijayRBI foreign investorKCET result 2026UAE salaryNEET UG 2026 re-exam city slipGreater Kailash fireK AnnamalaiTop TrendingCM VijayDelhi Greater Kailash FireRBI MPC Meeting 2026K AnnamalaiMohali Office MurderMamata BanerjeeIndian RupeeTCS Nashik CaseDelhi Plice HCM Result 2026Pawan Kalyan

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Vamsikrishna 0
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On paper, the government’s appeal to use public transport instead of fuel-consuming private vehicles is economically sound.Yet affordability is more complex than a bus ticket or metro fare. For millions of commuters, the true cost includes the auto-rickshaw ride to the station, the time spent waiting for connections, the reliability of services, and the percentage of monthly income devoted to travel.The evidence suggests that public transport in India is generally affordable, but not equally affordable everywhere. In cities with strong networks and efficient last-mile connectivity, the savings can be substantial. In places where commuters must pay heavily just to access the core mass transit system, the economic advantage narrows considerably.As governments encourage citizens to leave their vehicles at home amid global energy uncertainty, the success of that message may depend less on appeals to save fuel and more on whether public transport can offer a genuinely affordable, seamless door-to-door alternative.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosShehbaz Sharif Hails Trump As ‘Man Of Peace’, Credits Him For India-Pakistan CeasefireTMC Crisis Could Boost NDA’s Numbers For Delimitation, One Nation One Election Bills | WatchAmid NEET Paper Leak Row, IIT Roorkee Denies JEE Advanced Data Breach AllegationsThree Civilians Killed, Seven Houses Torched In Suspected Militant Attack In ManipurMohali Woman Stabbed To Death By Ex-Partner At Workplace; Accused Attempts SuicidePutin Says US Pressure On PM Modi Is ‘Useless’, India-US Ties Won’t Affect Russia RelationsPM Modi-Rodriguez Talks Signal India’s Push For Long-Term Energy Partnership With VenezuelaIndia And UK Deepen Strategic Ties As Yvette Cooper’s Maiden Visit Delivers Key AgreementsRBI Maintains Repo Rate At 5.25%, Flags Inflation Threats And Lowers FY27 Growth Projection To 6.6%’I Like Modi A Lot’: Trump Signals Breakthrough In India-US Trade Negotiations | Watch123PhotostoriesPsychology says emotionally exhausted people don’t always cry — they start saying “it’s fine”Six Signs That Guardian Angels Guide YouWhich lucky charm should you place on your office desk; based on your date of birth?8 everyday habits that build strong problem-solving skills in kidsSonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal’s penthouse is a relaxing abode of minimalism with bright bohemian colours: Art inspirations to steal8 parenting habits that help kids become independent thinkersWhich plant should you bring home for the positive vibes; based on your birth date7 locations in India where smart city initiatives are reshaping real estate9 iconic snakes of India’s Western and Eastern GhatsPediatrician shares 6 common household items that make many children land up at emergencies123Hot PicksRBI policyAkanksha ChaturvediCM VijayRBI foreign investorKCET result 2026UAE salaryNEET UG 2026 re-exam city slipGreater Kailash fireK AnnamalaiTop TrendingCM VijayDelhi Greater Kailash FireRBI MPC Meeting 2026K AnnamalaiMohali Office MurderMamata BanerjeeIndian RupeeTCS Nashik CaseDelhi Plice HCM Result 2026Pawan Kalyan

​Fuel-saving push, rising costs: Is public transport affordable enough? As fuel prices remain vulnerable to global events and governments continue urging citizens to use public transport, a practical question arises: how affordable is public transport in India today?While buses, metros and local trains are generally far cheaper than private vehicles, commuters often face additional costs such as last-mile connectivity, multiple transfers and longer travel times.An examination of fares across major Indian cities shows that while public transport remains the most economical option on paper, affordability varies significantly depending on where people live and how they travel.Public transport still cheapest optionAt a purely fare-based level, public transport remains the most economical mode of urban mobility in India. A commuter travelling 10 to 15 kilometres daily in most major cities typically spends a fraction of what a private vehicle owner spends on fuel alone.For example, a typical baseline look at a single 10 km journey reveals a stark contrast across modes:The gap becomes even wider when vehicle ownership costs such as maintenance, insurance, parking, depreciation and financing are included.The challenge is not whether public transport is cheaper. It almost always is.Hidden cost of last-mile connectivityA metro ride may cost only Rs 20 to Rs 50 in many cities. Yet reaching the metro station can add another Rs 20 to Rs 100 to the total journey. This “first-mile and last-mile problem” is one of the biggest obstacles to public transport adoption.Consider a commuter whose home is three kilometres from the nearest metro station. If an auto-rickshaw ride costs Rs 40 to Rs 80 each way, the commuter could spend more on accessing the metro than on the metro ride itself.In cities where feeder buses, e-rickshaws, cycle-sharing systems or pedestrian infrastructure are weak, public transport affordability deteriorates rapidly. Transport economists often argue that affordability should be measured not by the ticket price but by the total door-to-door cost. Using that metric, some commuters find that the savings over private vehicles become much smaller than headline fare comparisons suggest.Buses remain India’s affordability backboneDespite the rapid expansion of metro rail systems, city buses continue to carry the largest share of urban public transport users. For low-income and lower-middle-income households, buses remain the most affordable option.Several state governments continue to subsidise bus operations, keeping fares below market rates. However, with the onset of new challenges, schemes like the Delhi pink tickets that made travelling in buses for women across Delhi absolutely free have been revoked.And while the subsidies have strengthened affordability, it has increased the financial burden on state transport undertakings, many of which already face mounting losses.Metro: Speed but not always the lowest costMetro systems have transformed commuting in cities such as Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Mumbai, Kochi and Chennai. They are generally faster, more reliable and less affected by road congestion than buses. However, metro travel is not always the cheapest option. For short distances, bus fares often remain lower.For middle-class commuters, the trade-off is often between time and money.A bus journey costing Rs 15 may take 70 minutes, while a metro journey costing Rs 40 may take only 30 minutes.The value of time therefore becomes a major factor in determining whether commuters perceive public transport as affordable.Airport journeys expose biggest gapsOne of the clearest illustrations of urban transport affordability can be seen in airport connectivity. The difference between public transport and private transport costs is often dramatic.In several cities, airport cabs can cost five to ten times more than public transport alternatives.Yet many passengers continue to choose cabs because of luggage concerns, limited operating hours, or inadequate last-mile connectivity after arriving at a metro or bus station.Travel share from incomeAffordability is not simply about fares. It is about how much of a person’s income is spent on transport. Globally, transport planners often assess affordability by calculating transport expenditure as a share of household income.Using that approach, the picture becomes more nuanced. For a worker earning Rs 20,000 per month, a monthly commuting bill of Rs 2,000 represents 10 percent of income. For someone earning Rs 60,000, the same commuting bill represents only 3.3 percent.A city-wise macro comparison projects how these costs scale against estimated middle-to-lower-middle-class income metrics:This metric often reveals that public transport can be relatively affordable for higher-income commuters while remaining a significant expense for low-income workers.How private vehicles compareGovernment appeals to conserve fuel inevitably raise a broader question, how much does private transport actually cost? At current fuel prices, where petrol ranges between Rs 95–Rs 105/litre and CNG hovers around Rs 77–Rs 83/kg across metros, a two-wheeler remains relatively economical compared with a car, but it is usually more expensive than buses and suburban rail.Cars are significantly costlier. A typical car commuter faces expenses including:Fuel: Running costs of Rs 7 to Rs 10 per kilometre for petrol hatchbacks/sedans.Parking: Daily commercial parking fees ranging from Rs 50 to Rs 200.Maintenance & Insurance: Fixed annual costs that add thousands to the baseline.Depreciation & Loan repayments: Most private vehicles on the road have running EMIs becoming a silent monthly drain.Once these costs are combined, public transport often becomes dramatically cheaper. This is especially true in metropolitan areas where parking charges and congestion add substantial indirect costs.Why many people still do not switchIf public transport is cheaper, why do many commuters continue using private vehicles? The answer lies in factors beyond fares. Commuters often cite convenience, reliability and time savings as the main reasons for continuing to use private vehicles.Common concerns listed by these commuters include:Overcrowding (e.g., “super dense crush loads” on suburban trains)Long waiting times and poor reliabilitySafety and structural accessibility concerns, particularly for women and senior citizensLack of predictable last-mile connectivityInadequate integration between transport modes (e.g., separate ticketing for buses and metros)Limited service in suburban and peripheral areasThe persistence of private vehicle use suggests that many commuters are willing to pay a premium for greater reliability, comfort and shorter travel times. As a result, affordability alone does not determine transport choices.How affordable is public transport?India’s public transport system remains significantly cheaper than private mobility for most urban journeys. On paper, the government’s appeal to use public transport instead of fuel-consuming private vehicles is economically sound.Yet affordability is more complex than a bus ticket or metro fare. For millions of commuters, the true cost includes the auto-rickshaw ride to the station, the time spent waiting for connections, the reliability of services, and the percentage of monthly income devoted to travel.The evidence suggests that public transport in India is generally affordable, but not equally affordable everywhere. In cities with strong networks and efficient last-mile connectivity, the savings can be substantial. In places where commuters must pay heavily just to access the core mass transit system, the economic advantage narrows considerably.As governments encourage citizens to leave their vehicles at home amid global energy uncertainty, the success of that message may depend less on appeals to save fuel and more on whether public transport can offer a genuinely affordable, seamless door-to-door alternative.End of ArticleFollow Us On Social MediaVideosShehbaz Sharif Hails Trump As ‘Man Of Peace’, Credits Him For India-Pakistan CeasefireTMC Crisis Could Boost NDA’s Numbers For Delimitation, One Nation One Election Bills | WatchAmid NEET Paper Leak Row, IIT Roorkee Denies JEE Advanced Data Breach AllegationsThree Civilians Killed, Seven Houses Torched In Suspected Militant Attack In ManipurMohali Woman Stabbed To Death By Ex-Partner At Workplace; Accused Attempts SuicidePutin Says US Pressure On PM Modi Is ‘Useless’, India-US Ties Won’t Affect Russia RelationsPM Modi-Rodriguez Talks Signal India’s Push For Long-Term Energy Partnership With VenezuelaIndia And UK Deepen Strategic Ties As Yvette Cooper’s Maiden Visit Delivers Key AgreementsRBI Maintains Repo Rate At 5.25%, Flags Inflation Threats And Lowers FY27 Growth Projection To 6.6%’I Like Modi A Lot’: Trump Signals Breakthrough In India-US Trade Negotiations | Watch123PhotostoriesPsychology says emotionally exhausted people don’t always cry — they start saying “it’s fine”Six Signs That Guardian Angels Guide YouWhich lucky charm should you place on your office desk; based on your date of birth?8 everyday habits that build strong problem-solving skills in kidsSonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal’s penthouse is a relaxing abode of minimalism with bright bohemian colours: Art inspirations to steal8 parenting habits that help kids become independent thinkersWhich plant should you bring home for the positive vibes; based on your birth date7 locations in India where smart city initiatives are reshaping real estate9 iconic snakes of India’s Western and Eastern GhatsPediatrician shares 6 common household items that make many children land up at emergencies123Hot PicksRBI policyAkanksha ChaturvediCM VijayRBI foreign investorKCET result 2026UAE salaryNEET UG 2026 re-exam city slipGreater Kailash fireK AnnamalaiTop TrendingCM VijayDelhi Greater Kailash FireRBI MPC Meeting 2026K AnnamalaiMohali Office MurderMamata BanerjeeIndian RupeeTCS Nashik CaseDelhi Plice HCM Result 2026Pawan Kalyan

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