The growing perception that commuting by Namma Metro is becoming expensive is prompting many Bengalureans to return to private vehicles, potentially undoing years of progress in promoting sustainable public transport.

While there is no formal data quantifying the shift, motorists and traffic police report a visible rise in two-wheelers during peak hours. As per transport department data, Bengaluru has over 80 lakh registered two-wheelers in 2026, intensifying concerns of mounting congestion.

Commuters rethink their commute maths

Unni Krishna Menon, who earlier travelled by Metro between Jalahalli and Indiranagar, said rising fares and poor last-mile connectivity influenced his decision to switch back to his car.

“Travelling one way costs around Rs 70, plus Rs 30 for parking for four hours. I still need an auto to reach Domlur. It costs me about Rs 220 daily. With Rs 500 petrol, I can commute for nearly 2.5 days,” he explained.

College student Jatin Polanki echoed similar concerns. “Earlier, I paid about Rs 30 one way from Pattanagere to Majestic. Now, using my bike is more economical. With Rs 100 fuel, I can manage my entire day.”

RWAs warn of long-term impact

Resident welfare associations caution that repeated fare hikes may discourage daily commuters. Ramdev Satyanarayana from Konankunte said affordability is key to sustaining Metro ridership.

Christopher Cruz of NERWA emphasised that public transport is critical for decongesting the city and revenue considerations should not overshadow accessibility.

Tech professional Naresh Sadasivan added that commuters are willing to pay fair fares if connectivity and predictability improve. “Fix last-mile connectivity and user experience, and people will stay,” he said.

Proposed revised fares:

0–2 km: Rs 11
2–4 km: Rs 21
4–6 km: Rs 32
6–8 km: Rs 42
8–10 km: Rs 53
10–15 km: Rs 63
15–20 km: Rs 74
20–25 km: Rs 84
Above 25 km: Rs 95

As Bengaluru battles chronic traffic congestion, the debate highlights a critical balancing act between financial sustainability and commuter affordability.