Bengaluru Autorickshaws Must Upgrade Fare Meters by Oct 31 Amid Revised Fares

Bengaluru autorickshaw fares have been revised, with a base fare of ₹36 for the first 2 km and ₹18 per km thereafter. A 50% night-time surcharge applies between 10 pm and 5 am. Fare meters must be recalibrated and certified by the Legal Metrology Department by October 31. Additional changes include a ₹10 fee for every 20 kg of luggage and a ₹10 charge for every 15 minutes of wait time.

Bengaluru's auto rickshaw fares have been revised, effective July 14, 2025, with significant changes aimed at addressing inflation and operational costs. The new fare structure, as announced by the Transport Department, includes a base fare of ₹36 for the first two kilometers, an increase from the previous ₹30. Subsequent kilometers will be charged at ₹18, up from ₹15 per kilometer [1].

The revised rates also introduce a 50% night-time surcharge for rides between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. This change is intended to reflect the higher operational costs during night hours. Additionally, passengers are now allowed to carry up to 20 kg of luggage without any extra cost, with an additional charge of ₹10 for every 20 kg or fraction thereof, up to a total luggage limit of 50 kg. For waiting time, commuters will not be charged for the first five minutes, with a ₹10 fee imposed for every 15 minutes thereafter [2].

The Transport Department has mandated that all autorickshaws operating within Bengaluru must recalibrate their fare meters to reflect the updated rates by October 31. To facilitate a smooth transition, the Legal Metrology Department has been tasked with verifying and certifying these meters. All Legal Metrology inspectors stationed in the city, excluding those in the Investigation Wing, will be temporarily reassigned to handle this task exclusively [2].

The new fare revisions have been met with opposition from auto rickshaw drivers and unions, who argue that the increase does not adequately address the soaring inflation and rising operational costs. They have called for a base fare of ₹40 and ₹20 per kilometer going forward. The unions have threatened to disrupt services if their demands are not met, potentially causing disruptions for commuters across the city [1].

The Transport Minister, Ramalinga Reddy, has defended the revision, stating that the new rates are based on research and will not be changed. He has warned that ignoring the new fare requirements could jeopardize drivers' vehicle certifications and permits [1].

In conclusion, the revised auto rickshaw fares in Bengaluru aim to address inflation and operational costs. However, the new rates have been met with opposition from drivers and unions, who argue that the increase is insufficient. The successful implementation of these revisions will depend on the cooperation of drivers and the efficiency of the recalibration process by the Legal Metrology Department.

References:
[1] https://www.hindustantimes.com/cities/bengaluru-news/bengaluru-auto-rickshaw-drivers-oppose-20-fare-hike-demand-more-report-101753947007268.html
[2] https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/auto-fare-hike-effective-from-today-bengaluru-autorickshaws-must-upgrade-fare-meters-by-oct-31/article69879937.ece