Meter on the Move: Bengaluru Auto Fares Shift Gears After Four-Year Pit Stop

Image Source: Udayavani

Bengaluru will witness its first auto fare hike in nearly four years, which will ease the burden on drivers but add the burden of cost on regular commuters. The new fares follow in the wake of growing public outrage against out-of-control transport fares, especially in the wake of the recent ban on bike taxis.

Key Highlights:

New Fare System

Base fare will go up to Rs 36 for the first 1.9 km from Rs 30 now.
Future per kilometre rate will rise to Rs 18 from existing Rs 15.

Reasons for Hike:

Autorickshaw drivers and unions have long been demanding a fare increase based on increased fuel prices and running expenses.
The fare revision process involved consultation with police, Regional Transport Offices, and union members, whose approval was pending with the Bengaluru Urban Deputy Commissioner.

Context and Timing:

The hike was due to a rise in auto fares after bike taxis were banned on June 16, and this resulted in commuters having fewer alternatives of cheaper modes of transport and compelling a higher demand for autos.
Ride-hailing cars via apps have been overcharged by 20–30% over regulated meter rates, further burdening the commuters.

Awaiting Official Declaration:

The new charges are to be made officially by the Deputy Commissioner, who has other administrative tasks to handle.
After clearing, the new rates shall then apply citywide.

Legal and Public Context

The hike in price is simultaneous with other court battles over aggregator fares, with the High Court already capping app charges at 5% above official fares. Yet the problem of enforcement remains a problem, and commuters continue to notice prices going up on ride-hailing apps.

Bengaluru commuters need to prepare for higher auto fares in the coming days, a radical transformation in the city's daily commute landscape.

Source: Deccan Herald