Big news for the millions of commuters who depend on auto-rickshaws and black-and-yellow taxis for their daily commute in Mumbai. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Transport Authority (MMRTA) has approved a proposal to increase the fares of auto-rickshaws and black-and-yellow taxis. If all goes according to plan, the new fares could be implemented from September 1, 2026. However, passengers will have to pay as per existing rates till the official notification is released.
Minimum fare of auto is 27 rupees, taxi is 33 rupees
As per the new decision, the minimum fare of auto-rickshaws in Mumbai for the first 1.5 km will increase from ₹26 to ₹27. On the other hand, the current minimum fare of ₹31 for black-yellow taxis will be increased to ₹33. So even the passengers traveling for short journeys will now have to pay more than before. Not only the initial fare, but also the applicable per kilometer charge after the first 1.5 kilometers will be revised proportionately.
Demand for rental increases amid rising costs
Auto and taxi unions have been demanding fare revision for some time now. He says that CNG, spare parts, vehicle maintenance and other operating expenses have increased continuously. Fares were reviewed in view of rising costs for drivers. Now after the approval of MMRTA, the process of implementation of new rates will proceed. However, the final implementation will take place only after the official notification.
Important news for share auto-taxi passengers too
Mumbai has a large number of commuters who use sharing autos and taxis to reach home or office from the railway station. The new rules may affect these passengers as well. However, the MMRTA is yet to announce the final decision on the new fares for sharing autos and taxis. So, the amount of increase for this service is yet to be clarified.
Even in Pune, auto travel will be expensive
Another big city of Maharashtra, Pune, is also going to increase the auto fare from September 1. As per the new structure, one has to pay Rs 30 for the first 1.5 km, while at present this fare is Rs 25. Thereafter, Rs 20 will have to be paid for each additional kilometer, which was Rs 17 earlier. Therefore, the cost of auto travel in both Mumbai and Pune cities is set to increase. For people who travel by auto or taxi daily, this increase can have a direct impact on the monthly budget.