Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has fine-tuned its fare structure, set to take effect this Friday, by modifying fare patterns instead of revising the hike itself. This strategic workaround, akin to an innovative “jugaad,” aims to ease commuter concerns.

Initially, the fare increase averaged 51.55% before discounts. After reductions, weekday hikes stood at 41.7%, while Sundays and select holidays saw a 39.87% jump. The overall post-discount increase averaged 46.39%, but several commuters reported fare spikes between 70% and 100%.

BMRCL faced a dilemma, as fare revisions were bound by the Fare Fixation Committee (FFC). Unable to alter the slabs, officials recalibrated fares based on station count instead of actual distance. Regardless of the real gap between stations, each is now treated as one kilometer apart. Over 600 disputed fare combinations among 4,624 total were adjusted. The revised structure ensures a minimum hike of 33%, while the maximum cap is 71.43%.

This change benefits approximately 2.91 lakh passengers—over 40% of the daily ridership. Commuters who saw their fares double, such as from ₹20 to ₹40, will now pay ₹30 instead. Despite criticism, no refunds will be issued for inflated fares paid in the first four days.

Meanwhile, BMRCL aims to open the 19.15-km Yellow Line by April-end, provided they secure four more trains. Expansion will continue, but concessions on fares remain unlikely.