In a move to bring uniformity and fairness to taxi services in Bengaluru, the Karnataka Transport Department has introduced the ‘One City, One Fare’ policy. This initiative, which comes in response to requests from the Private Vehicle Owners Association, ensures that the fare structure fixed by the state is applied consistently across the city. This policy is set to simplify fare calculations and provide clarity for both drivers and passengers.
Tiered Fare Structure Based on Vehicle Value
The ‘One City, One Fare’ policy establishes a tiered fare system based on the value of the taxi:
- Taxis Under Rs 10 Lakh: The minimum fare for the first 4 km is set at Rs 100. Beyond this distance, passengers will be charged Rs 24 per km. This rate is designed to offer affordability for budget-conscious commuters.
- Taxis Between Rs 10 Lakh and Rs 15 Lakh: For mid-range vehicles, the minimum fare is Rs 115 for the first 4 km, with a rate of Rs 28 per km thereafter. This pricing aims to balance cost and service quality for passengers.
- Taxis Over Rs 15 Lakh: Premium vehicles have a minimum fare of Rs 130 for the initial 4 km, with Rs 32 per km charged for additional distance. This reflects the higher level of service provided by luxury taxis.
Additional Provisions for Luggage and Waiting Time
The new policy also addresses passenger needs beyond just fare calculations:
- Luggage Allowance: Passengers can carry up to 120 kg of luggage without incurring extra charges. For luggage exceeding this limit, an additional fee of Rs 7 per 30 kg will apply. This provision ensures that passengers with heavier loads are accommodated fairly.
- Waiting Time: The first five minutes of waiting are free, after which a charge of Rs 1 per minute is applied. This measure compensates drivers for extended waits and encourages timely pickups.
Late-Night Surcharge and Transparency in Fare Calculation
To account for the risks and challenges of late-night operations, a 10% surcharge will be applied to fares for journeys between midnight and 6 AM. Additionally, passengers will be responsible for any toll charges incurred during their trip. The Transport Department has emphasized that fares must be calculated strictly based on kilometres travelled, ensuring no additional fees beyond the government’s set rates are charged.
A Step Towards Fairness and Transparency
The ‘One City, One Fare’ policy is a significant step towards making taxi services in Bengaluru more transparent, fair, and convenient for passengers. By standardizing fares and introducing clear guidelines, the Karnataka Transport Department is paving the way for a more reliable and consistent transportation experience in the city.
