For the first time in nearly four years, auto rickshaw fares in Bengaluru have been officially revised. Starting August 1, 2025, commuters will pay Rs 36 for the first 2 kilometres, up from the current base fare of Rs 30. For every additional kilometre, the fare has been revised to Rs 18, replacing the earlier Rs 15 per km rate.
The revision was approved by the Bengaluru Urban Deputy Commissioner, who also serves as the President of the District Transport Authority. The official notification, dated July 14, outlines the updated fare structure and associated guidelines.
New Waiting Charges
According to the government’s notification, the first 5 minutes of waiting time are free but Rs 10 will be charged for every 15 minutes of waiting thereafter. Passengers can carry luggage weighing up to 20 kg at no cost. An additional charge of Rs 10 will apply for every 20 kg beyond the free limit.
The maximum luggage limit has been capped at 50 kg per passenger. The revised fare will also apply to night-time travel, with 1.5x fare applicable from 10 pm to 5 am.
Auto drivers are directed to display the new fare chart prominently inside their vehicles. A 90-day grace period, until October 31, 2025, has been granted for drivers to recalibrate their meters and get them certified by the Legal Metrology Department.
Mixed Response From Auto Unions
The fare revision has elicited mixed reactions from various transport associations. “We welcome the auto fare hike,” said Nataraj Sharma, president of the Federation of Karnataka State Private Transport Associations. He, however, suggested that the fare per additional kilometre be rounded off to Rs 20 instead of Rs 18 to avoid disputes over change.
“I request and advise drivers to follow the government fare and run on meter, instead of aggregator apps to teach them a lesson,” Sharma added.
Meanwhile, some auto unions expressed dissatisfaction, saying they had expected a base fare of Rs 40 and Rs 20 per kilometre thereafter. They have announced plans to protest the fare structure, arguing that the hike does not reflect rising fuel and maintenance costs.
The fare revision, while a long-pending demand from auto drivers, now opens up a new chapter of discussions around fare compliance, competition with app-based services, and the evolving needs of Bengaluru’s commuters.
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