Mumbai Auto & Taxi Fare On Hold: Meter Recalibration Delays

The revised fares for Mumbai's autorickshaws and taxis, which include a Rs 3 increase in the base fare, were supposed to come into effect on February 1. However, the implementation has been delayed due to issues in recalibrating electronic meters. The state transport department has yet to finalise a schedule for meter repairers, and the new fare chips are still being programmed, according to a Hindustan Times (HT) report.

Meter recalibration is essential to ensure correct fare calculations after a revision. In the meantime, the transport department has introduced QR code-based tariff cards. Only vehicles displaying these cards or using recalibrated meters can charge the new fares.

Photo Credit: PTI

Under the revised fare structure, the base fare for autorickshaws will rise from Rs 23 to Rs 26, while black-and-yellow taxis will charge Rs 31 instead of Rs 28. Blue-and-silver AC cool cabs will see an increase from Rs 40 to Rs 48 for the first 1.5 kilometres, as confirmed by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Transport Authority (MMRTA).

"We were informed that an internal meeting was held on January 27 to discuss recalibration, but we are still waiting for clear instructions," said a meter repairer, as per the HT report. "Until we receive details on procedures and pricing, we cannot begin work."

Due to the delay, passengers continue paying older fares, and drivers are still waiting for updated tariff charts from the Regional Transport Offices (RTOs). Sources indicate that before the new fares can be enforced, RTOs must guide meter repairers on procedures, jurisdiction, and recalibration charges.

A key issue is the cost of recalibration. The government has set the price at Rs 700 per meter, which includes Rs 280 for the programmed chip and Rs 100 for testing. However, repairers argue that market rates are higher, making it difficult for them to operate at the government's fixed price. "If we follow this pricing, we will face losses," said a meter repairer.

Meanwhile, taxi and auto unions believe Rs 700 is too high and are urging the government to reduce it to Rs 400-500. "Drivers should not have to bear such a high cost," said a union leader, calling for a price review.

Once recalibration begins, installing a new chip will take 8-10 minutes, followed by a testing phase lasting one to two days. Mumbai has 12 testing centres where recalibrated meters will be verified before being sealed and installed.

To speed up the process, the RTO has introduced a 13-point recalibration procedure, including CCTV installation at repair centres and a deadline of April 30 for completion. "We have issued clear instructions," said an RTO officer. "Drivers must ensure their meters are updated before the deadline."

Despite these measures, the delay continues, keeping commuters unaffected by the fare hike-for now.