Elizabeth Line opens for public today

The £18.8bn, much-delayed and hugely over-budget Crossrail project, Elizabeth line, which was meant to start running in December 2018, finally opens to passengers today. The Elizabeth Line links Reading and Essex via central London as passengers can today use the Abbey Wood to Paddington section, with journey times between the two cut by almost half. However, the passengers wishing to travel the length of the line will need to change at Paddington or Liverpool Street, depending on their destination, until next year.  Elizabeth Line fares will be identical to those on the London Underground Services currently operating as TfL Rail will remain unchanged, with a premium fare of £7,20 on journeys to and from Heathrow. A single far from central London on weekdays to Heathrow airport will cost 12.70 and be £2 cheaper at other times ( peak and off-peak Tube fares currently cost £5.50 and £3.50 respectively while the Heathrow Express cost £25), contactless pay-as-you-go payments are across the line while daily and weekly capping will also apply. Freedom passes allowing free travel including to Heathrow and Reading will be accepted after 09:00 on weekdays and at weekends. Railcards attached to Oyster cards will also receive one-third off fares. The Queen made a surprise visit to Paddington Station to see the completed line that bears her name.