The Shanghai Municipal Government has unveiled a new fare mechanism for its city-level train lines, including a flat rate of 26 yuan ($3.64) between its two major airports.

The proposal, which will be subject to a public hearing on Sept 2 at the Shanghai Museum East, lays out the pricing structure for the rapidly expanding network of inter-city and express rail lines.

The new fare system will be implemented on new intercity lines, which are distinct from the existing subway network. These lines, expected to reach over 1,000 kilometers in total length by 2028, will include intercity lines with a maximum speed of 160 kilometers per hour and an express metro line, the Chongming Line, running up to  120 kilometers per hour.

The proposed fare system includes two options for lines with a maximum speed of 160 kilometers per hour or above. Option one offers a flat rate of 0.45 yuan per kilometer, while option two implements a tiered system with rates ranging from 0.48 to 0.4 yuan per kilometer based on distance travelled.

For lines with a maximum speed below 160 kilometers per hour, the fare will be calculated at a flat rate of 0.37 yuan per kilometer.

A minimum fare of 4 yuan will apply to all lines, allowing passengers to travel up to 10 kilometers (option one) or 9.3 kilometers (option two) for lines exceeding 160 kilometers per hour, and up to 12.2 kilometers for other lines.

The initial section of the Airport Link Line, connecting Hongqiao Airport Terminal 2 and Pudong Airport Terminals 1 and 2, is scheduled to open by the end of the year. Under the proposed fare system, the full journey on this line will cost 26 yuan. Other examples include the Jiamin Line (Hongqiao Airport to Xinzhuang in Minhang district) with a fare of 5 yuan, and the Chongming Line (Chenjiazhen in Chongming district to Jinji Station in Pudong New Area) priced at 12 yuan.

Transfer between intercity lines and the existing subway network will be calculated separately, with intercity fares based on the distance traveled and subway fares adhering to the current pricing system. Additionally, passengers transferring from intercity lines to surface buses will enjoy transfer discounts.

The public hearing on Sept 2 will provide an opportunity for residents to express their opinions and suggestions on the proposed fare system. The final decision on the pricing structure will be made after considering public feedback.

Source: Jiefang Daily