Bengaluru’s new month began with commuter frustration as revised autorickshaw fares took effect on August 1, sparking outrage among office-goers, students, and daily travelers. The minimum fare within BBMP limits has increased from ₹30 to ₹36 for the first 2 km, with the per-kilometre rate rising from ₹15 to ₹18 — a steep hike that’s straining budgets.
Many are now exploring alternatives like carpooling to ease daily expenses. Architect Niranjana Devi, who commutes from Shantinagar to Yelahanka, recounted a clash with her auto driver who demanded ₹414 despite her app showing ₹365. “He showed a news article claiming the app hadn’t updated yet. With bike taxis banned, I had no option but to pay,” she said.
Even short rides are costly. Niranjana’s 2-km ride to Church Street now costs ₹200. “Public transport doesn’t reach my office directly. Walking from the nearest bus stop after work isn’t practical,” she added.
IT employee Kajal Kumari also felt the pinch. “From Shantinagar to MG Road used to be ₹60. Now it’s ₹100 or more during peak hours. If there were better public transport near my workplace, I’d skip autos altogether.”
For students, the hike is especially tough. Riia Riti, 20, saw her fare double from ₹40 to ₹90. Rahul Ravi Sankar, 19, said his daily 5-km ride has shot up to ₹170. “Spending ₹5,000 a month just to attend college is unsustainable,” he said.
The fare surge, paired with unreliable meter usage and app surcharges, has turned commuting into a financial burden.