Bengaluru: Complaints of rising auto-rickshaw fares on app-based platforms are increasing in Bengaluru following the transport department’s intensified crackdown on bike taxis, leaving commuters with fewer affordable last-mile travel options.

A Moneycontrol report found that several aggregator apps are not following the government-fixed fare structure, with passengers reporting minimum fares ranging from Rs 50 to Rs 70.

Government-fixed fares differ from app charges

The Regional Transport Authority (RTA) of Bengaluru Urban fixed the minimum auto fare at Rs 36 for the first 2 km in July 2025. The fare beyond that distance was fixed at Rs 18 per km, while waiting charges were waived for the first five minutes.

However, the fare structure displayed on Namma Yatri shows a minimum charge of Rs 40 for up to 2 km, followed by Rs 19 per km. It also lists a waiting charge of Rs 1.50 per minute after three minutes, along with a pickup fee.

Passengers have also complained that some platforms do not provide a detailed fare breakup. Uber, Rapido and Ola reportedly show only the suggested or selected fare rather than a complete breakdown.

Bike taxi crackdown pushes up demand

Industry sources attributed the higher auto fares partly to increased demand following the crackdown on bike taxis.

Commuters say additional components such as driver additions, platform fees, distance charges, pickup fees and congestion charges can substantially increase the final fare.

Passengers have also raised concerns about the lack of affordable alternatives for short-distance travel, particularly around metro stations, bus stands and railway stations.

Transport department promises action

A senior transport department official said action would be taken based on complaints.

Rapido, meanwhile, said government-notified fares apply to traditional street-hailing services, while app-based platforms operate with doorstep pickup and other services. The company said its pickup fee accounts for the driver’s first-mile travel to the customer’s location.

The fare dispute comes amid continuing calls for greater transparency in app-based transport pricing. For commuters, the key concern remains whether the crackdown on bike taxis will result in affordable and accessible last-mile connectivity across Bengaluru.