The Egyptian government raised the price of tickets of Cairo’s metro on Friday, more than tripling some fares. Commuters will be charged a base fare of EGP3 (USD0.17) for the first 9 stops, EGP5 for up to 16 stops, and a maximum of EGP7 for anything more than 16, MENA reported, citing a Ministry of Transportation decision. Previously, commuters used to cover an unlimited number of stops and even switch lines for the same base fare of EGP2. Discounted rates will be maintained under the new system for students, the elderly, and those with special needs. “The instructions are in the public’s interest and they will protect the metro, and so we can introduce new stations and develop the service and provide commuters with a humane means of transportation,” said Cairo Metro Authority’s spokesman, Ahmed Abdel Hady. He urged regular commuters to buy monthly passes to save money. The metro system has accumulated losses of EGP618mn (USD34mn), state news agency MENA reported. Meanwhile, dozens of Egyptians have protested at Cairo metro stations in a rare display of public discontent as the government tightens spending and pushes austerity measures, according to posts on social media. Clashes broke out between protesters and security forces at Maadi station and at least two people were arrested on Saturday, a Reuters witness said. Some posts showed people demanding the government rescind the decision.