Fare Revision in the Works
Auto-rickshaw drivers in Bengaluru are pushing for a fare hike to address increasing costs and inflation. The Regional Transport Authority (RTA) is set to meet with drivers’ unions on December 23 to deliberate on this demand. If approved, the revision will raise the minimum fare from Rs 30 to Rs 40 for the first two kilometres and the rate for subsequent kilometres from Rs 15 to Rs 20.
Night Rides and Additional Changes
The proposed fare revision may also introduce a 50 percent premium for night rides between 10 PM and 5 AM. This adjustment aims to align Bengaluru’s fares with those of cities like Mangaluru and Udupi, where the base fare for the first two kilometres is already set at Rs 40.
Rising Costs and Unions’ Demands
Drivers’ unions highlight that the last fare adjustments were made in December 2021, with minimal revisions since 2013. Auto LPG prices in Bengaluru have surged to Rs 61.49 per litre, exacerbating the financial strain on drivers. Unions argue that rising vehicle costs and inflation make the current fare structure unsustainable.
Impact on Aggregator Platforms
Ride-hailing platforms like Uber and Ola are also expected to revise their fares if the base rates are increased. Currently, aggregators charge 10 percent above the government’s base fare, plus 5 percent GST, as mandated by the Karnataka High Court.
Conclusion
The proposed fare hike in Bengaluru reflects the challenges faced by auto-rickshaw drivers amid inflation and rising operational costs. The December 23 meeting with the RTA will determine whether the fare revision is implemented, impacting commuters, drivers, and aggregator platforms alike.
