City Chokes on Higher Transport Costs: Fare Hike Sparks Outcry
Taxi, auto-rickshaw, and bike taxi fares in the city have seen their first increase in three years, effective July 7, 2025. A new flat rate system for the initial three kilometers has been introduced.
The hike has ignited a firestorm of discontent among commuters already grappling with rising living costs. Many express concerns about the added financial burden, particularly for daily wage earners.
However, the city’s taxi union remains unconvinced about the benefits. They anticipate minimal impact on their earnings, citing intense market competition and the already thin profit margins.
Associations representing the transport sector hope for effective implementation of the new fare structure, ensuring fair compensation for drivers while also addressing commuter concerns. The success of this measure will hinge on striking a balance between these competing interests.
This fare hike underscores the delicate economic balance in urban India, where even small increases in transport costs can significantly impact the daily lives of millions. The coming weeks will reveal if the increase offers sustainable relief to drivers while remaining affordable for the city’s commuters.
