Bengaluru Metro fares to rise by 40-45%; maximum fare set at ₹85

Bengaluru’s Namma Metro commuters will face a steep fare hike after nearly eight years, with prices set to increase by 40-45%. The new structure, expected to be implemented by late January, will see the base fare rise to ₹15 and the maximum fare climb to ₹85, up from the current ₹60.

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The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) announced that the hike follows recommendations from a government-appointed fare fixation committee, which analyzed operational costs, infrastructure expansion, and public feedback. The committee submitted its findings last week, and the BMRCL board is expected to approve the changes on January 17.

To ease the impact, discounts will be offered during off-peak hours and Sundays, with existing 5% concessions for smartcard and QR code users continuing.

The fare revision comes amid rising operational and maintenance costs, which have surged by 300% due to increased infrastructure demands, expensive spare parts, and electricity expenses. Maintenance needs have grown significantly as the metro network expanded from 43.2 km in 2017 to 76.95 km currently. The network is projected to reach 175.55 km by December 2026 with the completion of Phases 2, 2A, and 2B.

This is the first major revision since 2017, when fares rose by 10-15%. Officials cite the aging infrastructure and the need to ensure sustainable operations as key reasons for the hike. Commuters are advised to brace for the change as the metro continues its push toward enhanced connectivity.