Bengaluru Metro’s New Toilet Charges Stir Outrage After Fare Hike

Bengaluru Metro commuters are now facing new charges for using toilets at 12 major stations, just a few months after a hefty fare hike of up to 71%. The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has rolled out a fee of ₹2 for urinals and ₹5 for toilets in the unpaid (public) areas of stations like National College, Lalbagh, Jayanagar, and Cubbon Park. This decision, aimed at enhancing cleanliness through the management of Sulabh International, has sparked significant backlash from both passengers and political figures. Karnataka BJP president BY Vijayendra criticized the Congress-led government, labeling the charges as an affront to dignity and a way to monetize basic necessities. Commuter groups and even BMRCL’s own employees’ union have expressed their discontent, arguing that access to sanitation at public transport hubs should be free, especially in light of the recent fare increases. BMRCL has clarified that toilets located within paid metro zones will still be free for ticketed passengers. Source: India Today, Hindustan Times, News24, Moneycontrol