Mumbai: Auto, cab fares to become cheaper if you travel long distances

Autos in Mumbai

Now, your trips by auto and taxi may become cheaper, especially if it's a long one. In a move to increase the use of autos in Mumbai, the government-appointed Khatua committee, is planning to recommend new fares for autos and taxis from this month.

In The Times of India report stated that the panel is considering increasing the minimum distance for fares to 2 km, and to give discounted fares for commuters travelling long distances during peak hours. They also plan to encourage digital payments for commuters.

It is believed that this decision comes after the transport department recommended that this move will help ensure that Kaali Peeli taxis and aggregator taxi services like Ola and Uber are on a level playing field. In a statement, an official said, "The panel will finalise minimum fares for all taxis/cabs and cap surge pricing in Mumbai. It will ensure drivers earn a decent income and end refusals for short trips. In some cities, the minimum fare is for 2km, which encourages drivers to accept short trips."

The article quoted a source as saying that the department was planning to have a telescopic fare chart where the amount would decrease as the distance increased.

"The panel is also checking the possibility of Happy Hours travel in Kaali Peelis, that is discounted fares for non-peak (afternoon) hours," an official was quoted as saying in the article. This is stark contrast to what the drivers had initially demanded. They want higher fares since they haven't got a hike in months. Several consumer groups have also suggested increasing fares every three month or if the driver's services are good.