Bengaluru airport to enforce strict new pick-up lane rules from December 8 to cut congestion

Kempegowda International Airport to roll out lane segregation, timed free entry, penalties and towing to ensure smoother, safer arrivals.

A major traffic revamp is coming to Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) as a new lane segregation system for arrival pick-ups will officially begin on December 8. With over 1.3 lakh passengers and nearly one lakh vehicles passing through the airport daily, the surge in traffic has put heavy pressure on kerbside areas outside both terminals. The new system aims to end overcrowding, improve discipline and create a safer, faster movement for all travellers.

Also Read:Bengaluru’s idli-dosa beats Delhi and Mumbai: Scottish traveller’s viral praise wins the internet

Under the revised plan, private cars will be allowed free entry into the arrival pick-up lane at both Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 for up to eight minutes. After the free window, vehicles will be charged ₹150 for staying between 8-13 minutes and ₹300 for 13-18 minutes. Any vehicle that remains beyond 18 minutes will be towed to the nearest police station, with additional fines and towing fees applicable. Airport authorities said the aim is to discourage long waits that create artificial congestion along the kerbside.

Commercial vehicles, including yellow-board taxis, app-based cabs and electric fleet operators, will not be permitted to wait at the arrival gate lanes. They must use the designated parking areas: P4 and P3 for Terminal 1, and P2 for Terminal 2. The first 10 minutes in these parking zones will be free to allow drivers time to reach travellers after receiving the pick-up request.

Also Read:Bengaluru airport corridor hits 1 lakh vehicles a day, Sadahalli toll now busiest in Karnataka

The airport operator has also flagged an increase in unauthorised cabs parking near arrival gates, halting along exit ramps and conducting roadside pick-ups. These practices have caused traffic blockages, safety risks and inconvenience to passengers. The new measures include penalties for vehicles waiting in non-permitted areas or blocking lanes. Passengers have been advised to use only recognised aggregators such as Airport Taxi, Ola, Uber, Quick Ride, OHM electric cabs and WTI services.

With the introduction of this system, KIA aims to create a smoother, more organised arrival experience during a time when passenger numbers continue to rise each season. The success of the new arrangement will depend on strict adherence by both private vehicle users and commercial cab operators.