Bengaluru: Close on the heels of bus, metro prices, auto prices to go northwards?

Following the recent hikes in government bus ticket and metro prices, the government is likely to increase the autorickshaw fares too in Bengaluru . The Bengaluru City District Regional Transport, in a meeting with people concerned, will decide the issue. 

Also Read: Bengaluru metro fare hike pushes commuters to seek alternatives

Currently, the minimum price for Autorickshaws is Rs. 30 with an additional charge of Rs. 15 per kilometre after the first two kilometres, in Bengaluru. However, autorickshaw driver associations have demanded increasing the minimum price to Rs 50 and charging Rs 25 per kilometre beyond the initial distance. 

Nonetheless, the transport department is considering an economical price revision, putting forward a minimum price of Rs. 40 and Rs. 20 for every additional kilometre. 

Impact on the people

This price rise is leading to financial strain on commuters especially those from lower-income backgrounds,  and they will experience increased transportation costs. Higher public transport fares may prompt individuals to choose private vehicles over public vehicles leading to traffic congestion and pollution.

Karnataka is witnessing a surge in prices, sparking speculations that price hike is linked to the implementation of the Siddaramaiah-led government’s 5 Guarantee schemes. 

Moreover, there is a possibility of an increase in water bills in the near future as a consequence of all these developments.