By Mukesh 
Auto drivers’ associations in Bengaluru have urged the government to increase the minimum auto meter fare, citing the continuous rise in auto LPG prices following the ongoing crisis in West Asia.
The associations have submitted a petition to the Bengaluru Urban Deputy Commissioner demanding a revision of fares, stating that the sharp increase in fuel prices has severely affected the livelihood of drivers.
At present, the minimum auto meter fare in Bengaluru is ₹36, while passengers are charged ₹18 for every additional kilometre. However, the associations are now demanding that the minimum fare be increased to ₹50 and the subsequent fare to ₹25 per km.
According to auto drivers, the situation has become increasingly difficult due to the shortage of auto LPG and the sudden spike in fuel prices over the past few weeks. They said that the price of auto LPG, which was around ₹56 per litre before the escalation of the West Asia crisis, has now surged drastically. About a week ago, the price reportedly touched ₹90 per litre and has now reached nearly ₹95 per litre in Bengaluru.
No other option
Murali K., an auto driver from Rajajinagar, said that the rising fuel costs have made it difficult for drivers to earn a sustainable income. “We are already struggling with reduced business and long-waiting hours at LPG filling stations. The sharp increase in fuel prices has pushed many drivers into financial distress. Under these circumstances, seeking a fare revision has become unavoidable,” he said.
Indian Vehicle Drivers’ Trade Union president Gandasi Sadananda Swamy said that the associations were aware that the demand for a fare hike could inconvenience commuters, but added that drivers had no other option. “We are very sorry to the people and regular commuters that we are seeking an increase in fares. Everyone knows the situation is very bad. Drivers are waiting in queues for hours to get LPG and at the same time, business has reduced. Fuel prices have skyrocketed and we do not have any alternative other than requesting the government for a hike in the minimum fare,” he said.
Mixed reactions
However, commuters have expressed mixed reactions to the demand. Ravindra Kumar, a daily commuter from Yeshwantpur, said that while the difficulties faced by auto drivers were genuine, the proposed hike to ₹50 appeared excessive.
“It is true that auto drivers are suffering because of the increase in LPG prices and other issues. A fare revision may be necessary, but ₹50 as the minimum fare is too high. Maybe ₹40 or ₹45 would be more reasonable. If fuel prices come down in the future, the fares should also be reduced again. That would help both drivers and commuters,” he said.
Another commuter, Swathi R. from Jayanagar, opposed the proposed hike and said auto travel had already become expensive for many passengers. “Even now, fares on ride-hailing apps are very high because of hidden charges and surge pricing. Most auto bookings are happening through these apps and commuters are already paying more than the regular meter fare. The government should not consider a fare hike at this stage,” she said.