Namma Metro rides to become expensive

Last fare revision happened in 2017, and BMRCL now aims to increase fares by 15-20%

The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) is considering a fare revision in the coming months. An official stated, “We need to manage loan repayments and interest payments. The Fare Fixation Committee will review all aspects before finalising any changes. Public opinion, customer affordability, and the sustainability of BMRCL will all be taken into account during the process. While BMRCL is currently operating at a profit, outstanding loans remain to be repaid. The last fare revision occurred in 2017, and the upcoming revision is expected to see an increase of 15-20%. Currently, the minimum fare is Rs 10, while the maximum is Rs 60.”

BMRCL officials said that one of the compelling reasons to revise the Metro fare is the need for financial sustainability. “BMRCL has taken significant loans to fund its expansion projects and it still has large debts to repay. Fare revisions would help cover these repayments, including the interest; ensuring that BMRCL can continue to expand its network, maintain service quality, and upgrade infrastructure. Without adequate funding, the Metro may struggle to meet the demands of a growing city like Bengaluru, potentially compromising on essential services, safety measures, or new technology that can enhance commuter experience,” said an official.

Another reason for fare revision is inflation. Since the last fare hike in 2017, operational costs have likely risen due to inflation, increasing labour costs, fuel prices, and maintenance requirements. A fare adjustment in line with these increased costs would be necessary to balance BMRCL’s finances. “Fare hikes are a common practice globally to maintain the standard and reliability of public transportation systems, and a reasonable increase could ensure that commuters continue to receive high-quality service without causing significant disruption to the corporation’s financial stability,” the official added.

However, commuters argue that the mass transport systems should not hike fares as it will affect customers. “On the other hand, revising the metro fare upwards could disproportionately affect daily commuters, especially those from lower-income groups. Many people rely on metro as an affordable and efficient means of transportation, and a fare hike could force them to look for cheaper alternatives, like overcrowded buses or private vehicles, which would not only add to traffic congestion, but also impact Bengaluru’s environment with increased emissions,” Satwik K, a college student said.

Ramana Murthy, a senior citizen added, “Moreover, with rising living costs in the city, including housing and utilities, a metro fare hike could be an additional financial burden for commuters. Public opinion is crucial in this regard. If the increase is seen as unjustified or too steep, it may lead to a drop in ridership, which would ultimately hurt BMRCL’s revenue. Keeping fares stable could encourage more ridership, which, in turn, could boost overall revenue through increased ticket sales rather than fare hikes.”