Autorickshaw fares hiked in Bengaluru; new rates effective August 1-OxBig News Network

In a blow to autorickshaw users, the Regional Transport Authority (RTA) of Bengaluru Urban district has revised the auto fares within city limits, with the updated rates taking effect from August 1.

Bengaluru Urban Deputy Commissioner G. Jagadeesha confirmed to that the minimum fare has been increased to ₹36 for the initial 2 km, up from the current ₹30. The per-km charge beyond the first 2 km has also gone up from ₹15 to ₹18.

Commuters travelling between 10 p.m. and 5 a.m. will now pay 50% more as part of the night fare surcharge. The latest order, dated July 14, also outlines changes in baggage and waiting charges. Passengers can carry up to 20 kg of luggage at no additional cost. Beyond this, a fee of ₹10 will be charged for every 20 kg or part thereof, with a maximum luggage limit capped at 50 kg.

Waiting time will be free for the first five minutes. Post that, a fee of ₹10 will be levied for every 15 minutes of delay.

The order states that all autorickshaws must visibly display the revised fare chart. In addition, auto drivers are required to recalibrate and verify their fare metres by October 31 to align with the new pricing structure.

This revision comes after a long-standing demand from auto drivers, who have cited rising fuel costs, general inflation, and increased living expenses as reasons for a fare hike. The last revision to auto fares in the city was made in 2021.