Autorickshaw Fares Revised in Bengaluru, Effective August 1

Quick Summary

• Bengaluru Urban Regional Transport Authority (RTA) has revised autorickshaw fares effective August 1, affecting commuters within city limits.
• the minimum fare is increased to ₹36 for the first 2 km, up from ₹30; per-km charge thereafter rises to ₹18 from ₹15.
• Night fare surcharge (10 p.m.to 5 a.m.) will see passengers paying 50% more than daytime rates.
• Luggage policy now allows up to 20 kg free, with an additional charge of ₹10 for every extra 20 kg or part thereof, capped at 50 kg total luggage.
• Waiting charges apply post a free initial five minutes: ₹10 for every subsequent block of 15 minutes.
• Auto drivers must recalibrate and verify fare meters by October 31 and visibly display revised fare charts in their vehicles.
• Fare revision follows requests from auto drivers citing fuel price increases, inflation, and living costs-the last hike was in 2021.

Indian Opinion Analysis
The revision in autorickshaw fares comes amidst rising concerns about inflationary pressures on both operators and commuters alike. While the move may offer some financial relief to auto drivers burdened by fuel costs and higher living expenses, it places greater financial strain on daily commuters already grappling with broader cost-of-living challenges in Bengaluru-a tech hub known for its traffic congestion yet critical dependency on autos as affordable transport options.

Mandating visible updated fare charts and meter recalibration ensures clarity but necessitates strict enforcement to safeguard commuter interests against overcharging during the transition period before October’s compliance deadline. Night surcharge hikes may disproportionately impact low-income segments reliant on late travel schedules-a consideration deserving balanced urban mobility policies moving forward.

Read more here