Chilean Seniors Gain access to Reduced Public Transportation Fares
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Santiago, Chile - In a move to enhance accessibility and affordability, Chilean authorities have affirmed the right of all citizens aged 65 and older to pay half-fare on public transportation nationwide. This impactful benefit extends across all regions of Chile, providing considerable savings for senior commuters.
The programme encompasses an extensive network of over 31,000 buses, including all urban services, alongside the Santiago Metro, Valparaíso’s Metro and Trolleys, the Biobío region’s Biotren, subsidized boats in the south, and rural bus lines. For seniors in Santiago, this translates to a passage cost of just $350 Chilean pesos within the integrated transport system-Red, Metro, and Metrotren-nonetheless of time or trip complexity.
Did You Know? This initiative aims to promote social inclusion and improve the quality of life for older adults in Chile, ensuring they can maintain independence and access essential services.
eligibility and Requirements
Access to this reduced fare is straightforward. The sole requirements are being 65 years of age or older and possessing a valid Chilean national identity card.
How to Obtain the Senior Transportation Card
Chilean seniors can acquire the necessary card through three convenient methods:
Through Your Pension Fund
- contact your pension fund provider – Andes (600 510 00 00), La Araucana (600 084 00 77), September 18 (600 718 18 18), or Los Heroes (600 222 7777) – and request a card free of charge.
- The card will be mailed directly to your home. Los Heroes delivers cards to affiliates at 33 branches throughout the Metropolitan Region.
At Chileatnda and Metro Stations
- Visit a Chileatnda branch or a designated Metro customer service office.
- Inform the staff that you wish to purchase the BIP card for seniors (Elderly intermodal TAM).
- Pay the card’s cost at the available payment stations.
- You will immediately receive your BIP card! Elderly Intermodal (TAM).
Via BIP Customer Service
- go to a nearby box or BIP customer service office.
- Make the payment, providing the beneficiary’s national ID number (Run).
- Inform the staff that you are collecting the BIP card! Elderly Intermodal (TAM), presenting proof of payment.
- Receive your card upon completion of the process.
For detailed details on how to utilize the benefit in specific regions, visit this official resource.
Pro Tip: Keep your national ID card readily available when using the reduced fare, as transportation personnel may request verification.
What impact do you think this initiative will have on the daily lives of Chilean seniors? How can other countries learn from Chile’s approach to supporting its aging population?
| Provider | Contact Number |
|---|---|
| Andes | 600 510 00 00 |
| La Araucana | 600 084 00 77 |
| September 18 | 600 718 18 18 |
| Los Heroes | 600 222 7777 |
Chile’s commitment to accessible transportation for seniors reflects a broader global trend toward age-amiable cities and inclusive public services. As populations worldwide age, governments are increasingly recognizing the importance of ensuring that older adults can maintain their independence and participate fully in society. This initiative builds upon existing social welfare programs in Chile, such as subsidized healthcare and pension benefits, further strengthening the social safety net for its senior citizens. The success of this program could serve as a model for other Latin American nations facing similar demographic shifts.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What age qualifies for the reduced fare? Individuals aged 65 and older are eligible.
- What identification is required? A valid Chilean national identity card is necessary.
- Where can I obtain the senior transportation card? Through your pension fund, Chileatnda/Metro stations, or BIP customer service offices.
- Is the reduced fare available on all forms of public transport? Yes,it applies to buses,the Santiago Metro,and other regional transport systems.
- How much is the reduced fare in santiago? The fare is $350 Chilean pesos for the integrated transport system.
We encourage you to share this critically important information with friends, family, and anyone who might benefit from this valuable program.your comments and feedback are always welcome – let us know what you think!
