Bengaluru Metro Fare Hike After 7 Years: Minimum Rs 15, Maximum Rs 75

Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL), which has not increased metro fares in the past seven years, is now set to revise its fare structure following recommendations from the Central Government's fare-fixing committee. The minimum fare for a metro ride will rise to Rs 15, while the maximum fare will increase to Rs 75. The last fare revision took place in 2017, after the launch of the Bangalore Metro service. This is the second time a committee formed by BMRCL is reviewing the fare hike.

Public suggestions, comments, and objections to the proposed fare changes were solicited until October 28. The fare revision is being conducted under the guidance of the First Fare Fixing Committee, established by the Central Government as per Sections 33 and 34 of the Metro Railway (Operation and Maintenance) Act, 2002. Currently, fares range from a minimum of Rs 10 to a maximum of Rs 60 for a single journey between stations.

In addition to the fare hike, passengers using smart cards and QR code tickets will receive a 5% discount. Despite rising operational expenses, maintenance costs, and increasing staff salaries, BMRCL has not raised fares in the past seven years, which has led to growing concerns about the delay in rate revision.

BMRCL Managing Director Mahesh Rao stated that the final decision on the fare hike will be made after reviewing the committee's report. In related news, there is positive momentum regarding the extended metro route from Nagasandra to Madawara on the Green Line. Several MPs, including Tejaswi Surya, have urged BMRCL to open this extended section to relieve congestion at Nagasandra Metro Station. To this end, BMRCL has decided to conduct necessary technical tests and open the new stretch on Tumkur Road for early operation.