This refers to the article “Million journeys now” (BS Weekend, October 2). The huge cost of metro networks is an eye-opener. The hidden cost of this urban transport system is often ignored: residents of cities with metro networks have to bear a lot of inconvenience when these networks are being constructed. Further, the opportunity cost of the money invested in network construction remains disguised. The alternative modes of transport like the public bus transport system with fuel-efficient, modern buses may not be as grandiose as the rail networks but are actually far better in the long run. The network construction should be monitored efficiently to ensure that it is completed with less than 15-20 per cent of cost over-runs.
Narendra M Apte, Pune
