Authorities have discussed plans to implement a metered option for public transportation.

This means Beijing will end the era of flat rate subway fares.

北京地铁调价方案出炉The Beijing Municipal Development and Reform Commission has released a basic outline which says ticket fares will be based on distance or number of stops.

But the commission says the new price, although it may be almost doubled to 4 yuan, or some 65 cents, will remain the lowest among big Chinese cities.

Beijing has adjusted its charges for public transport four times since the reform and opening up policy began in 1978.