Mumbai autos, taxis get costlier from tomorrow, September 1: Here’s what you’ll pay

Starting September 1, rides in Mumbai's autorickshaws and taxis will see a cost increase. The Maharashtra Transport Department has released new tariff cards outlining the revised minimum fares for both transportation modes. An autorickshaw ride covering 1.5 kilometers will now cost a minimum of Rs 27, while a taxi journey of the same distance will be at least Rs 33.

The base fare of Rs 18.22 for autorickshaws and Rs 21.90 for taxis will be charged per kilometre, rounded off to the nearest rupee. Night rides, between midnight and 5 am, will see a 25 percent fare increase. Additionally, AC taxis will have fares 10 percent higher than standard taxis. Waiting charges of Rs 1-2 per minute, or 10 percent of the per-kilometre fare, will depend on the distance covered.

These tariff cards will remain in effect until taxi and autorickshaw meters are recalibrated, which is expected by November 30. The fare hike comes after the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Transport Authority (MMRTA) approved a Re 1 increase in autorickshaw base fare and Rs 2 for taxis. Drivers are given three months to adjust their meters, failing to which they'll face daily penalties from November 30.

The revised fares align with the 2017 BC Khatua Committee report's recommendations, factoring in rising fuel costs, vehicle prices, and the Consumer Price Index (CPI). The hike is in response to demands from autorickshaw and taxi unions, amplified by Mahanagar Gas Limited's May price increase to Rs 86 per kg for CNG. The new rates will apply across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region, encompassing Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Thane, Kalyan, and Mira-Bhayander.