Bengaluru: A Reddit post highlighting an auto ride priced at an astonishing ₹425 for just one kilometre during a rainy evening has gone viral, fuelling debate over surge pricing and the rising cost of transport in the city.

Viral post triggers discussion

The incident came to light when a Reddit user posted a screenshot of the fare estimate on the r/bangalore subreddit. According to the post, the user’s friend, who was trying to head home, abandoned the booking after seeing the fare and instead walked with an umbrella.

The fare displayed by the cab app showed ₹425 for a short auto ride, while a car ride for the same distance was listed at around ₹364.

“Yesterday night while it was raining, my friend tried to book an auto as he was going to his hometown and the fares were just shocking. Immediately, he took an umbrella and walked all the way,” the Redditor wrote.

Social media reactions

The post quickly gained traction, with several users expressing disbelief. Some compared Bengaluru’s surge fares to cab rates in developed countries.

  • “Taxi rides in Germany in a Benz are priced similarly for these distances,” one user commented.
  • Another added humorously: “Perfect time to buy an auto.”
  • A third said: “These fares are almost the same as Uber/Lyft cabs in the US.”
  • Some urged people to walk or cycle short distances instead of paying inflated fares.

Why cab fares surge in Bengaluru

Experts point out that surge pricing by cab aggregators like Uber and Ola is based on demand-supply dynamics. During heavy rain, demand spikes as fewer autos are available on the road, leading to fare hikes. Rising fuel costs and peak-hour demand also contribute to price surges.

Despite explanations, users say the steep fares are unreasonable and highlight a lack of alternatives during emergencies.

Bengaluru’s larger transport challenge

Beyond surge fares, Bengaluru has long been grappling with traffic congestion and inadequate transport planning. With over 13 million residents and millions of vehicles, the city faces daily gridlocks. Narrow roads, rapid urbanisation, and prolonged infrastructure works worsen the situation.

Though metro expansions and traffic management initiatives are underway, urban planners say sustainable public transport solutions are needed to curb dependence on private vehicles and app-based cabs.

Conclusion

The viral post has once again put Bengaluru’s transport woes under the spotlight. While surge pricing remains a global practice, the steep fares highlight the pressing need for affordable, reliable alternatives for commuters—especially during adverse weather.