Rapid rail transit system: A comparative financial performance between London (UK) and New Delhi (India)
Ranjeev Kumar Prajapati, Archna Singh and Karuna Shanker Kanaujiya
The Rapid Rail Transit System (RRTS) plays a crucial role in urban mobility, offering fast and efficient transportation solutions. This study compares the financial performance of RRTS in London (UK) and New Delhi (India), analyzing key metrics such as revenue generation, operational costs, government subsidies, and profitability. London’s transit system, operated by Transport for London (TFL), benefits from high fares, extensive ridership, and diversified revenue streams, including congestion charges and commercial activities. In contrast, New Delhi’s metro system, managed by the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC), relies on lower fare structures, government funding, and public-private partnerships to maintain sustainability. The study evaluates gross revenue, gross expenditure, Operating Expenses and Operating Income revenue and also analyse operating profit/loss of London Underground and Delhi Metro during 2002-03 to 2021-22. London’s RRTS demonstrates greater self-sufficiency, driven by a well-integrated transport network and advanced ticketing systems. Meanwhile, New Delhi's model prioritizes affordability and accessibility, with long-term investments supporting expansion. Findings highlight the need for balanced fare policies, innovative revenue generation, and government interventions to ensure sustainable urban transport solutions.