Train passengers across England and Wales are feeling the pinch as rail fares rose by nearly 5%, adding to frustrations over ongoing cancellations and delays plaguing the network.
Campaigners warn that cash-strapped travellers are being priced out of rail travel, with critics lambasting the fare increases as punitive amidst the “shocking state” of the railway system.
According to a Sky News report, even before the latest fare hike, the UK already boasted the most expensive train tickets in Europe. With regulated rail fares in England and Wales capped at 4.9%, commuters are feeling the squeeze on their wallets, particularly for season tickets on commuter routes and flexible tickets for travel within major cities.
Chris Page, chairman of pressure group Railfuture spoke to Sky News: “Why are rail passengers being punished year after year with inflation-busting fare rises?”
“No matter that there’s a cost-of-living crisis, no matter that we’re facing a climate emergency, the government seems more determined than ever to price us off the railway and on to the roads,” added Page.
The timing of the fare increase has drawn sharp criticism, coinciding with a backdrop of disruption caused by rail strikes and widespread cancellations. Passengers have voiced frustration at the irony of facing higher fares on a day marked by mass train cancellations and delays, with incidents reported across several major routes including between Manchester and Liverpool, Rock Ferry and Chester, and Wimbledon.
In Scotland, the situation is no better, with the Scottish Government announcing an 8.7% increase in ScotRail fares from April 1st, further exacerbating financial strain for commuters.
The impact of the fare hike is tangible, with annual season tickets from Woking to London set to surge by £190, while flexi season tickets for travel between Liverpool and Manchester could see a rise of £92.60 for a year. Such increases are prompting concerns that rail travel is becoming increasingly unaffordable for many.
This issue is poised to become a contentious topic in the upcoming general election, with Labour pledging to bring the railways back into public ownership as contracts expire. The government’s handling of the railway system, including fare regulation and addressing disruptions, is likely to be a key battleground for political debate in the months ahead.
About Author
Leave a Reply