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Bengaluru’s Namma Metro has officially become India’s most expensive metro system, following a sharp fare hike of nearly 50%. The new pricing structure, implemented by the Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) based on the Fare Fixation Committee’s recommendations, introduces peak and non-peak pricing, marking the biggest fare increase in years.
New Metro Fare Structure: What’s Changed?
Under the revised fare system, passengers traveling more than 25 km now pay a maximum of ₹90, up from ₹60. Other key changes include:
- Journeys between 10 to 12 km now cost ₹60.
- Travel distances from 20 to 25 km are priced at ₹80.
- The minimum fare remains ₹10 for short trips up to 2 km.
- The smart card minimum balance has been increased from ₹50 to ₹90.
To offset the increase, BMRCL is offering 5% discounts during peak hours and 10% during non-peak hours for smart card users. However, many commuters argue that the discounts are too small to counteract the steep price hike.
Commuters Worry About Rising Costs and Traffic Woes
The fare hike has sparked criticism, with daily metro riders concerned that the higher prices may discourage public transport use, forcing more people back to private vehicles, potentially worsening Bengaluru’s already severe traffic congestion.
Compared to other Indian cities, Bengaluru’s metro fares are now the highest.
- Delhi Metro: Maximum fare ₹60.
- Ahmedabad Metro: ₹5 to ₹25 for a 40 km journey.
- Pune Metro: Maximum fare ₹40.
- Kolkata Metro: Most affordable, ranging from ₹5 to ₹25.
Why Did BMRCL Increase Fares?
BMRCL justified the fare hike by citing the need to fund the metro’s expansion and maintenance. Since the last fare revision in 2017, Bengaluru’s metro network has grown from 43.2 km to 76.95 km, with plans to extend to 175.55 km by December 2026.
Additionally, rising operational costs and a 300% increase in maintenance expenses—mainly due to frequent repairs and high-priced spare parts—necessitated the price revision. The Fare Fixation Committee recommended the increase to ensure the metro remains financially sustainable.
Students Demand Fare Concessions
The All India Democratic Students’ Organisation (AIDSO) has opposed the hike, demanding a 50% fare concession for students, according to a Moneycontrol report.
“Nearly 30% of the metro’s 7 lakh daily passengers are students, and this price increase makes commuting unaffordable for many,” AIDSO stated, arguing that public transport should remain accessible to encourage mass transit use and reduce traffic congestion.
As Bengaluru’s metro network expands, the impact of the fare hike on public transport usage and traffic conditions remains to be seen.
