Bangalore Auto-Rickshaw Fare Hike from August 1: Minimum Charges Raised to Rs36, Rs18 for Each Additional Km

The Regional Transport Authority (RTA) of Bangalore Urban District has announced a revision in auto-rickshaw fares within the jurisdiction of the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP). The new fare structure, approved after months of discussion and review, will come into effect from 1 August 2025, impacting thousands of daily commuters and drivers across the city.

Bangalore Auto-Rickshaw Fare Hike: Minimum Fare Increased to Rs 36, Rs 18 for Each Additional Kilometre

Under the revised guidelines, the minimum fare for the first two kilometres of travel in an auto-rickshaw has been increased from Rs 30 to Rs 36, reflecting a 20% hike.

For distances beyond two kilometres, passengers will now be charged Rs 18 per additional kilometre, up from the existing Rs 15. This fare adjustment marks the first major revision in recent years.

Night Fare Surcharge: Increased or Remained Unaffected?

The night fare surcharge remains unchanged at 50% of the regular fare and will be applicable between 10 pm and 5 am. This ensures that passengers travelling during late-night hours continue to compensate drivers for working during low-traffic but high-risk periods.

Mandatory Meter Re-Verification by 31 October 2025

As part of the fare revision rollout, the RTA has also issued strict orders for the re-verification of all auto-rickshaw meters operating within BBMP limits. All meters must be updated to reflect the new fare structure and must be officially verified and stamped by the deadline of 31 October 2025.

Impact on Commuters

For commuters in Bengaluru, the fare revision may offer only limited relief unless driver compliance improves. The city has long grappled with the issue of auto-rickshaw drivers refusing meter fares, particularly for shorter routes or during peak hours. Passengers frequently report being quoted arbitrary rates, often much higher than what the meter would display.

Drivers are expected to ensure their vehicles display updated fare charts clearly for passenger reference. The move is aimed at promoting transparency and accountability, particularly in a city where fare disputes between drivers and passengers are common.

Although the fare revision was introduced following prolonged demands from auto-rickshaw driver unions, the response from the driver community has been far from enthusiastic. Auto-rickshaw unions had originally demanded a base fare of Rs 40, along with Rs 20 for every additional kilometre travelled.

In comparison, the revised fares fall short of their expectations, and representatives have expressed dissatisfaction, calling the hike insufficient to cover the increasing costs of fuel, maintenance and insurance.