Bengaluru: In a bid to address persistent complaints of ride refusals, fare bargaining and overcharging, a Bengaluru-based driver collective has launched a digital meter platform that combines the ease of street-hailing with the transparency of app-based fare calculation.

The initiative, introduced by Nagara Meter Auto, allows commuters to hail participating autos and taxis directly from the roadside while ensuring fares are calculated strictly according to government-approved metre rates.

Digital meter offers real-time fare tracking

According to Niranjanaradhya, Chief Executive Officer and founder of Nagara, the platform was developed to restore trust between commuters and drivers.

He said that nearly 90 per cent of passengers complain about drivers refusing rides or demanding fares well above the official meter rate.

Under the new system, drivers activate the NagaraMeter app at the start of a journey. Passengers can then scan a QR code displayed inside the vehicle or access a fare-tracking link sent via SMS or WhatsApp to monitor the fare in real time.

The digital meter calculates charges based on government-approved rates, eliminating the need for fare negotiations.

Blending traditional hailing with technology

Unlike conventional ride-hailing apps, the platform allows commuters to continue flagging down autos and taxis on the street without making an online booking.

At the same time, registered drivers can accept app-based bookings while also serving walk-in passengers at busy locations such as Metro stations, bus stops and technology parks.

The initiative aims to preserve the convenience of traditional street-hailing while bringing greater transparency to fare calculation.

Driver network continues to expand

The platform has witnessed rapid growth since its launch. According to the company, daily rides have increased from around 10–20 trips to nearly 400 trips, while the number of active drivers has grown from approximately 150 to nearly 500.

The driver collective believes the digital meter will improve commuter confidence, reduce disputes over fares and provide a fairer, more transparent experience for both passengers and drivers across Bengaluru