Bengaluru: Metro fares spark political row

Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya has strongly criticised the steep increase in Namma Metro fares, calling the revised structure “the most expensive in the country” and unaffordable for daily commuters. His remarks came soon after the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) announced a modest hike in its ticket prices, while still remaining cheaper than Bengaluru’s updated rates.

Surya questions fare policy and transparency

“Just compare these reasonable hikes in the Delhi Metro to what BMRCL has made in Bengaluru,” Surya posted on X. “The steep hike in Bengaluru is absolutely illogical and makes Bengaluru Metro the costliest in the country and unaffordable to many. It’s even more shameful that they haven’t published the Fare Fixation Committee report yet!”

The Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) introduced its revised fare structure earlier this year, raising ticket prices across slabs. Surya accused BMRCL of lacking transparency, pointing out that the Fare Fixation Committee (FFC)—tasked with reviewing fares under the Metro Railways Act—had already submitted its report months ago but the findings remain undisclosed.

“Without disclosing the committee’s findings, imposing such steep fares is unfair on Bengaluru’s commuters,” the MP added.

Comparing Delhi and Bengaluru fares

The Delhi Metro’s latest fare revision, citing operational costs, has kept its prices significantly lower than Bengaluru’s. For instance:

  • A 20 km ride in Delhi Metro costs ₹30,
  • The same distance in Namma Metro costs ₹45–50, depending on the line.

Commuters argue that the gap highlights how Bengaluru’s fares are disproportionately high, especially when compared to services in other metropolitan cities.

Commuters bear the brunt

The steep hike has drawn sharp backlash from daily passengers, civic activists, and labour groups. Many argue that the revised rates are unaffordable for office-goers, students, and daily wage workers, particularly those travelling long distances across the city.

Civic groups have also noted that Bengaluru already faces traffic congestion and limited public transport connectivity. High fares, they fear, may discourage people from using the metro—undermining the very goal of reducing road congestion.

Conclusion

As the debate intensifies, Surya’s criticism reflects growing public anger over the fare structure. With pressure mounting, BMRCL faces demands not only to reconsider its pricing but also to release the Fare Fixation Committee report for public scrutiny. Until then, Bengaluru’s commuters continue to feel the pinch of what many now call the costliest metro ride in India.