Metrolink plan to stop fare-dodgers

METROLINK passengers will no longer be able to buy single tickets on the get me there app as part of a new fare-dodging initiative.

From Monday (June 15), bosses are removing single tickets in a bid to ‘protect Metrolink for the future.’

This is to deter passengers from jumping on the tram without paying - and then darting on to the app to buy a single to avoid being rumbled if they see an inspector heading their way. Since last week, services have been ramped up from every 20 minutes to every 12 amid rising passenger numbers.

This has been enabled by the £11.6m government bailout - but Andy Burnham, Greater Manchester mayor, says more will be needed to keep the network afloat.

Danny Vaughan, TfGM’s Head of Metrolink, said: “While most of our passengers are honest and buy tickets when travelling on Metrolink, we also know that a small number try to travel for free and only buy a ticket on the app when they see ticket inspections taking place.

“This type of behaviour is dishonest and unfair on regular fare-paying passengers.

“Until now the network operated without subsidy, with the money raised from tickets being used to run the network and fund its expansion.

“Obviously coronavirus has changed that and it’s more important than ever that we look at ways to prevent fare evasion, and removing singles from the app is one way that we think will help.”

If a Metrolink journey is essential, passengers can still use the app to buy one-day, seven-day and 28-day travelcards.

Free travel for NHS and social care workers, as well as the suspension of restrictions on elderly concessionary pass holders, have now been removed.