Namma Metro Ridership Falls Below 5 Lakh: Commuters Ditch Trains Over Over High Fares

Namma Metro's average daily ridership has dropped by 13% since the fare revision in the second week of February. Before the hike took effect on February 9, the metro saw an average of 8.2 lakh daily passengers. However, in the following 20 days, ridership fell to 7.1 lakh, marking a 13% decline.

Sharp Decline in Monthly Ridership

The month-on-month comparison reveals an even sharper drop. In January, around 2.5 crore passengers used the Metro, but in February, this number plummeted to 2 crore-a 20% decrease, according to Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) data.

While BMRCL maintains that the average fare hike was 46%, commuters argue that some sections witnessed increases of up to 110%. Following public outrage, the fare structure was partially revised, offering some relief for short-distance commuters. However, long-distance passengers claim the revised structure did not ease their burden.

Post-revision, Namma Metro fares now range from ₹10 (minimum) to ₹90 (maximum). Despite adjustments, ridership continues to decline. The lowest daily ridership was recorded on February 23, with just over 4.9 lakh passengers. Since the hike, daily ridership crossed 8 lakh only twice-on February 10 and 24.

The fare increase has driven thousands of commuters to switch to private vehicles or BMTC buses, with students and lower-income groups hit the hardest.

BMRCL's Response

Asked about measures to boost ridership, BMRCL MD Maheshwar Rao stated, "We are analyzing the data and impact on ridership." When questioned about a possible fare rollback, he declined to comment.

Public Outcry Over High Fares

Commuters are questioning why both the central and state governments are delaying action on the issue. Subramanya B, a regular metro user, said, "Metro was introduced to decongest Bengaluru and offer affordable travel, but these fare hikes are working against the people's interests."

Unlike other cities where students receive discounted passes, BMRCL charges them full fares. Anupama, a student, said, "Students can't afford to spend ₹3,500 a month on metro travel. This is becoming a burden on parents."

As ridership continues to dip, passengers await government intervention to make Namma Metro more affordable again.