Bengaluru: Commuters across Bengaluru are facing mounting frustration as autorickshaw fares spiral sharply in the wake of Karnataka’s statewide ban on bike taxis. With the once-popular and economical two-wheeler option now off the roads, city dwellers are being forced to contend with what many describe as unaffordable, and often arbitrary, auto fares. Amongst many voices raising concerns is also Bengaluru Central MP, PC Mohan, who recently shared his views on social media.
The fare hike has prompted a flood of complaints on social media, where residents are accusing both autorickshaw drivers and app-based ride aggregators of taking undue advantage of the situation. Reports suggest that even short-distance rides, previously available for modest sums, are now being priced at steep and unpredictable rates.
Bengaluru Central MP raises alarm, demands government’s intervention
Auto fares in Bengaluru have surged 50% post bike-taxi ban. Even 3 km rides cost ₹120–₹150. Commuters report forced “tips” of ₹30–₹100 to avoid cancellations. With meters defunct and digital monopolies unchecked, the Govt must act to restore fairness and accountability. pic.twitter.com/4yyL2HEuaX
— P C Mohan (@PCMohanMP) June 26, 2025
Among those raising alarm is Bengaluru Central MP PC Mohan, who has urged the state government to take swift corrective action. “A 1.5-km auto ride through aggregator apps now costs over Rs 70. The fare structure has completely broken down. The government must step in, enforce metered fares, and dismantle digital cartelisation. Commuters have already been overcharged by Rs 1,010 crore,” he posted on social media platform X.
The MP highlighted that, since the ban, the city has seen fares jump by nearly 50 per cent. He pointed to examples of 3-km trips costing between Rs 120 and Rs 150, and added that riders are frequently pressured to pay unofficial “tips” of Rs 30 to Rs 100 to prevent drivers from cancelling trips. With autorickshaw meters widely reported to be out of use and aggregators applying inconsistent pricing, the absence of regulatory oversight has only deepened public dissatisfaction.
Passengers demanding revival of alternative commute options
Online, a growing number of passengers are calling for the revival and expansion of alternative mobility options. Some have suggested legalising bike taxis, shared autorickshaws, and point-to-point mini-vans such as Tata Aces with fixed fares, arguing that commuters need more affordable and diverse transport choices.