On the cards: Auto Fare Hike in Bengaluru; Proposal Awaits Final Nod

For the first time in nearly four years, auto‑rickshaw fares in Bengaluru will increase significantly.

The base fare may go up from ₹30 to ₹36 for the first 1.9 km, with the per‑kilometer rate rising from ₹15 to ₹18, going by Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy and recommendations from the District Transport Authority, .

The new fare structure however awaits final approval from Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. Its full rollout and enforcement, including meter recalibration, are expected in the coming months.

The fare increase marks a turning point in Bengaluru’s urban transport evolution—bringing relief to drivers yet stirring frustration among commuters already grappling with congestion and cost pressures.

Three key factors prompted the hike. The decision follows concerns over escalating fuel and maintenance expenses, with CNG nearing ₹98/kg . The recent suspension of bike‑taxi services on June 10 removed an affordable transport option, leading to greater dependency on autos. Third, auto unions lobbied for an even steeper hike—₹40 base fare and ₹20/km—but authorities opted for a moderate ~20% increase. 

Following the proposal to  hike, commuters took to social media to vent their frustration, describing the rise as “unbearable” and accusing the “auto mafia” of exploiting the situation. They also wondered whether the autos will turn on the metres and stop declining requests from the public.

“I mean, what’s with this auto mafia in Bengaluru that seems to be never‑ending? Just after the Bike Taxi was banned, the rates have become unbearable,” one X user posted.  “Why can’t we pretend there is a pandemic and… go back to working from home and doing online meetings. It’s painful to get stuck for 2 hours on a Monday morning and act enthusiastic,” another user reacted. 

The debate over tipping as an unofficial surcharge has resurfaced amid the fare hike.

With bike‑taxis banned, commuters say public buses and metro (with last‑mile travel costs) are their only options—though each comes with its own challenges. Some netizens suggest a regular fare‑revision mechanism and a shift to regulated e‑autos to stabilize prices. 

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