December 13, 2024
3 mins read

FINALLY, SOME GOOD NEWS! 

Mayor Sadiq Khan Freezes Bus and Tram Fares for Historic Sixth Year. He unveiled TfL fares package for 2025, with a freeze to bus and tram fares, keeping them one of the lowest in the UK, and helping to boost ridership across the city 

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan has announced a freeze on bus and tram fares for the sixth consecutive year, a historic decision that ensures Londoners will continue paying the same rates as they have since March 2023. This move keeps bus and tram fares among the lowest in the UK, boosting affordability and encouraging ridership across the capital’s extensive network. 

The bus remains the most used form of public transport in the capital. Across London, bus ridership continues to grow, with more than 1 billion bus journeys made already this financial year. More than 95 per cent of Londoners live within 400 metres of a bus stop and the Mayor has worked hard to ensure buses remain the most accessible, affordable and sustainable form of transport. 

The freeze is a significant boon for lower-income and disabled Londoners, who predominantly rely on these accessible and economical services. Bus ridership, a cornerstone of London’s public transport system, remains robust with over one billion journeys made this financial year alone. More than 95% of Londoners live within 400 meters of a bus stop, further cementing the importance of buses in the city’s transport ecosystem. 

Key initiatives, such as the Hopper fare, continue to make travel affordable by offering unlimited bus and tram journeys within an hour for just £1.75. Since Mayor Khan’s first election in 2016, fares have increased by just 25p, a figure significantly lower than inflation rates over the same period. 

However, the Mayor also confirmed that Tube and rail fares across London will rise by 4.6% starting March 2, 2025, in line with national rail fare increases. This decision follows the UK Government’s directive, tying fare hikes to continued funding for critical transport infrastructure projects, such as Superloop 2 and Tube upgrades. 

While the increase affects Tube and rail users, TfL has worked to minimize the impact. Pay-as-you-go fares in Zone 1, for example, will rise by only 10p, and caps for daily travel across multiple zones will see proportional increases. 

“Londoners know from my record that wherever possible I’ve made TfL fares more affordable and fairer,” said the mayor. “I’m really pleased to announce this sixth consecutive freeze on bus and tram fares, benefiting those on the lowest incomes. 

“Following the Government’s budget, ministers made clear that to secure national funding for key transport projects, TfL Tube and rail fares would need to increase. This funding will allow us to progress exciting projects like Superloop 2, as we continue building a fairer, safer, and greener London.” 

Alex Williams, TfL’s Chief Customer and Strategy Officer, reinforced the sentiment:  “This fares package aims to keep fares as affordable as possible while supporting London’s economic growth. With daily and weekly capping, the Hopper fare, and our wide range of concessions, we’re ensuring customers get the best value.” 

All existing concessions, including the Zip and 60+ London photocards, will remain in place, providing free or discounted travel to millions of Londoners. 

The freeze on bus and tram fares will support lower-income and disabled Londoners, who are more likely to use bus and tram services, the most accessible way to get around London. With this dual approach—freezing bus and tram fares while modestly increasing Tube and rail fares—Mayor Khan aims to balance affordability, sustainability, and the need for future investment in London’s world-class transport network. 

ALSO READ: UK to Play Greater Role in The Middle East Stability

ALSO READ: Second UK-EU Cyber Dialogue held in London 

Previous Story

Xi may skip Trump’s inauguration ceremony

Next Story

£100 mn health research boost 

Latest from -Top News

Goyal Courts Global CEOs in Paris

Piyush Goyal is on an official trip to France with the aim of boosting trade and investments…reports Asian Lite News Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal met with leading global CEOs in

India Gains Malaysia’s Backing on Terror

The visit of the all-party delegation to Malaysia is part of India’s strategic outreach to garner international support against cross-border terrorism emanating from the soil of Pakistan….reports Asian Lite News An Indian

India Signals FTA with Oman

The talks for the free trade pact with Oman started in November 2023, and Goyal visited the Gulf country from January 27 to January 28….reports Asian Lite News Commerce and Industry Minister

Hasina Charged with Crimes Against Humanity

The charges, which were made public on Sunday, mark a significant turn in the political landscape of Bangladesh…reports Asian Lite News Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been formally charged with

Syria Strikes $7b Deal

The agreements, signed in the presence of Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, mark a total investment of 7 billion U.S. dollars…reports Asian Lite News – Syria signed a series of memoranda of understanding
Go toTop

Don't Miss

Rival gangs clash during kabaddi match in UK, 3 hurt

Some people said they were unable to get to their

Toolkit to teach relations

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan Launches Landmark Toolkit to Educate