Real cost of things we buy...

navshot - 29-OCT-2008

I always wondered what is the real cost of things we buy. I realized, you can buy an LED torch for Rs. 25! How does it work out? Bill of materials should be less than Rs. 10 and labour another Rs. 5! Wow!! We usually push it aside saying "Chinese", as though its a complete explanation. But is the real cost of the product? I always wondered there has to be more to it - the hidden costs.

Urban development, costs of Metro and Indian budget - a perspective

asj - 10-OCT-2008

In my arguments with regards BRTS, I often bring up the key but neglected and forgotten matter of cost-effectiveness of a given solution to our transportation problems. It should come as no surprise to most who are acquainted with my stance that I hate the idea of spending money without a clear crsip rationale and long term plan.  And the Metro falls under this category as far as I am concerned.

MMRDA officials have in the past replied in agreement to my suggestion that Mumbai Metro will not solve its problems at all. Given the fact that 10000 daily migrants to Mumbai will swell it to a city 30 million plus by 2030, it will be fair to say that whether Mumbai gets sea links or Metro rail, people will still be travelling in quasi or near stampede like situations and roads will always remain clogged.