Bengaluru Auto Drivers Demand Fare Hike To Address Cancellation And Refusal Issues

Bengaluru's auto drivers are urging the Karnataka transport department to revise the fixed government rates for auto rides in the city. The union emphasizes that issuing a new fare list would address issues such as ride cancellations and refusals within the city.

In a letter addressed to Karnataka Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy, the Autorickshaw Drivers Union highlighted, "Auto fares have seen only two increments in the past decade, leading many drivers to demand additional sums from passengers. Considering the rapidly rising cost of living, it's crucial to reevaluate the government-set prices to accommodate the requests of auto drivers."

Previous protests by auto unions in Bengaluru outlined various demands to the government, including a call for the ban of two-wheeler taxi services, citing passenger safety concerns. These demands were formally presented to the state's transport department.

Previously, aggregator apps like Ola, Uber, and Rapido came under government scrutiny for charging fares exceeding Rs 100 per trip. They were instructed to align their pricing with government-set rates and refrain from overcharging customers.

In November 2021, the Karnataka government increased meter fares for auto drivers across the state. The revised rates elevated the initial two-kilometer fare to Rs. 30 from Rs. 25 and raised the base price per kilometer to Rs. 15 from Rs. 13.