Winning Bizness Desk
Mumbai.Starting from February 1, the fares for auto rickshaws and taxis in Mumbai will be higher. The minimum fare for traveling in the iconic black-and-yellow taxis will now be ₹31. Similarly, the minimum fare for an auto rickshaw ride will be ₹26.
The Maharashtra Transport Minister announced that women will continue to receive tickets at half the price. Additionally, senior citizens will be allowed to travel for free. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Transport Authority (MMRTA) approved the fare hike for both taxis and auto rickshaws during a meeting. For a distance of 1.5 kilometers, the minimum fare for a black-and-yellow taxi will rise from ₹28 to ₹32. For the same distance, the auto rickshaw fare will increase from ₹23 to ₹26.
Major blow to Mumbai residents
This fare hike has come as a major blow to Mumbai residents, especially following the state elections. Along with the increased taxi and auto rickshaw fares, bus fares have also been raised by 15%. The transport department has further suggested improvements in last-mile connectivity for the Metro Line 3 project. They plan to build seven new auto stands outside five Metro 3 stations to improve ease of travel. This metro line will connect Aarey to Bandra-Kurla Complex.
In addition to this, the transport department is planning to introduce over 30 regular and share auto-taxi stands along busy routes in the eastern and western suburbs, including Thane, Kalyan, and Vasai. These new stands aim to improve transportation access and reduce congestion, especially in areas with high demand for short-distance travel.
Part of a larger effort to modernize Mumbai’s public transport system
The fare hike and expansion of transportation infrastructure come as part of a larger effort to modernize Mumbai’s public transport system. Despite the increase in fares, the government's continued support for women and senior citizens will offer some relief to these groups. However, with both taxis and auto rickshaws becoming costlier, commuters may face increased financial strain in the coming months.
Overall, the decision to increase fares is expected to have a significant impact on daily commuters, particularly those who rely on taxis and auto rickshaws for their daily travel. The ongoing development of the metro system and the introduction of new auto stands aim to alleviate some of the pressure caused by these changes, but for many, the rising costs may still prove challenging.
