‘One city, one rate' ignored: Aggregator taxi firms accused of overcharging in K’taka

Leading app-based taxi aggregator companies are facing serious allegations of violating Karnataka’s “One City, One Rate” fare policy, which mandates uniform taxi pricing based on vehicle type. A formal complaint has been lodged with the State Transport Department by High Court Advocate Amrutesh, highlighting widespread overcharging by these platforms.

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Under the government's pricing framework, taxi fares are fixed according to the market value of vehicles. For the first 4 kilometres, the base fare is capped at Rs 100, Rs 115, or Rs 135, depending on the category of the vehicle. After this, the per-kilometre rate is set at Rs 24, Rs 28, or Rs 32. These rates are standardised across Karnataka to ensure fair pricing for all passengers under the “One City, One Rate” initiative.

However, passengers have reported that aggregator companies continue to apply surge pricing based on demand, time, and traffic conditions, charging significantly more than the notified rates. This practice has become especially rampant in Bengaluru, where commuters depend heavily on ride-hailing services.

Despite clear orders from the Karnataka State Road Transport Authority, these companies are allegedly ignoring fare guidelines and exploiting loopholes in dynamic pricing mechanisms. The Bharat Transport Association Group has joined the call for action, demanding strict enforcement of the pricing rules and penalties for violations.