Namma metro to raise fares for the first time in 8 yrs

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: Bengaluru’s Namma Metro commuters are set to face a substantial fare increase for the first time in nearly eight years, with ticket prices expected to rise by 40-45 per cent. This decision follows recommendations from a government-appointed fare fixation committee, which recently submitted its findings to the BMRCL board. The committee analysed several factors before recommending the fare hike. Public feedback was sought in October 2024, and the final report was submitted last week.

The BMRCL board is likely to approve the proposal on January 17. Under the revised fare structure, the base fare will increase to Rs 15, while the maximum fare will rise to Rs 85, up from the current Rs 60. To help ease the financial impact on passengers, additional discounts will be available during off-peak hours and on Sundays. Regular discounts of 5 per cent for smart card and QR code ticket users will continue. The new fares are expected to take effect by the end of January, as mandated by the Metro Railways (Operation and Maintenance) Act, 2002, the report further added.

The last fare revision in 2017 saw a modest 10-15 per cent increase when the metro network spanned just 43.2 km. Since then, the operational network has nearly doubled to 76.95 km and is projected to expand to 175.55 km by Dec 2026, with the completion of Phases 2, 2A, and 2B. Rising operational and maintenance costs, including electricity expenses and the ageing infrastructure.