Bengaluru metro ridership falls by 1 lakh after fare hike

Bengaluru Metro has witnessed a sharp decline in ridership following its recent fare hike, with nearly 1 lakh fewer passengers using the service over three days. The drop, amounting to an 11.63% decrease with spiraling prices, sparked public outcry and prompted government intervention.

Also read: BMRCL finally caves in; revises Metro fare slabs amid passenger outrage

According to data from the Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL), the metro recorded 8.6 lakh passengers on February 9, the day the new fares took effect. By February 10, ridership had fallen to 8.2 lakh, followed by 7.7 lakh on February 11 and 7.6 lakh on February 12.

The fare revision drew strong criticism from commuters, with many highlighting a sudden and steep increase in ticket prices. Responding to the backlash, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah directed BMRCL Managing Director Maheshwara Rao to reassess the fare structure.

Following this, BMRCL announced a revised pricing system to address discrepancies. The revised fares will follow a structured increase of 46% instead of the earlier arbitrary jumps. While the minimum fare remains unchanged at ₹10, the maximum fare has now been capped at ₹90.

Officials have assured commuters that the corrections will be implemented immediately, with the new fare slab coming into effect from tomorrow. The metro remains a crucial mode of transport for Bengaluru’s daily commuters, and authorities hope the adjustments will help regain passenger confidence.