As Bengaluru grapples with rising travel expenses, mobility platform Namma Yatri is under fire over claims of unexplained charges and inflated fares.
One commuter, Vijay, shared his ordeal online, alleging he was quoted ₹117 for a cab ride but ended up paying ₹187. Posting screenshots, he called it “loot service,” questioning a ₹40 “driver pick-up fee.” Tagging Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy, he urged immediate action to curb such practices.
The post struck a chord with other frustrated riders, who recounted similar experiences and accused the platform of exploiting dynamic pricing without oversight. Some questioned why app-based fares often jump arbitrarily, especially during peak hours.
In its defense, Namma Yatri responded that fares adhere to government guidelines and can vary depending on demand, congestion, and timing. However, many users remained unconvinced, branding certain fees—like the pick-up charge—as unjustifiable.
The issue quickly ignited broader discussions about urban mobility policy. One user mocked the fee, asking if drivers were expected to collect passengers over video calls. Others demanded reintroducing bike taxis and shared ride options to make commuting more affordable.
Calls are growing for the Karnataka government to regulate app-based transport pricing more strictly and ensure transparency. Commuters argue that until robust public transport becomes reliable, unchecked dynamic fares will keep burdening daily travelers.