Pune Transport Panel Reviews Auto Fare Increase

Pune: Auto rickshaw commuters across Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad could face higher travel costs from August after transport authorities began reviewing a proposal to revise fares in response to rising compressed natural gas (CNG) prices. The proposed increase reflects mounting operating expenses for drivers while highlighting the broader challenge of balancing affordable urban mobility with the financial sustainability of public transport services.

The proposed Auto Rickshaw Fare Revision is expected to be considered by the Regional Transport Authority (RTA), chaired by the Pune District Collector. Discussions between transport officials and representatives of auto rickshaw unions have resulted in a draft proposal that recommends increasing the minimum fare for the first 1.5 kilometres from ₹25 to ₹30. The rate for every additional kilometre is also proposed to rise from ₹17 to ₹20. The demand follows successive increases in CNG prices, which operators say have significantly raised the daily cost of running vehicles. With fuel accounting for a major share of operating expenditure, driver associations argue that existing fares no longer reflect current economic conditions, affecting the viability of services that remain an important component of Pune’s last-mile transport network. Transport experts note that auto rickshaws continue to play a critical role in connecting residential neighbourhoods with metro stations, bus terminals, railway stations and commercial centres. However, fare revisions require careful assessment as they directly influence travel affordability, particularly for students, senior citizens and lower-income households that depend on public and intermediate transport for daily commuting.

Industry representatives have indicated that calculations based on recognised fare determination guidelines could justify a steeper increase. Nevertheless, the proposal submitted to the authorities reportedly seeks a comparatively moderate revision to limit the financial burden on passengers while partially addressing higher fuel and maintenance costs. If approved, the Auto Rickshaw Fare Revision would require recalibration of fare meters before the revised tariffs come into effect. During the transition, transport officials are expected to ensure that updated fare charts are made available to passengers until recalibrated meters become operational across the fleet. Such measures are intended to minimise confusion and improve fare transparency during implementation. Urban mobility specialists observe that periodic fare reviews are essential to maintaining reliable transport services, but they also underline the importance of integrating fare policy with wider investments in sustainable mobility.

Expanding metro connectivity, strengthening city bus services and improving non-motorised transport infrastructure can reduce dependence on private vehicles while creating a balanced urban transport ecosystem.The Regional Transport Authority is expected to take a final decision after reviewing the proposal and associated cost data. The outcome will influence not only the earnings of thousands of auto rickshaw operators but also the daily commuting expenses of residents across the Pune metropolitan region, making the decision significant for both urban mobility and household budgets.

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Pune Transport Panel Reviews Auto Fare Increase