Mumbai: Taxi and autorickshaw unions in the city have renewed their demand for a fare hike, citing rising costs and the recommendations of the Khatua Committee. The current minimum fare for taxis is Rs 28, while autorickshaws charge Rs 23. Union leaders argue that these rates are no longer sustainable.

A.L. Quadros, a prominent taxi union leader, stated, “We have already written to the concerned authorities, requesting a Rs 4 increase in the minimum taxi fare.” Similarly, Thampy Kurien, representing the autorickshaw unions, has urged an increase in the minimum fare for suburban autorickshaws from Rs 23 to Rs 26, aligning with the Khatua Committee’s recommendations.

Sources indicate that any fare hike proposal must be approved by the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Transport Authority (MMRTA), chaired by the transport secretary. The MMRTA evaluates various factors, including the consumer price index, vehicle capital costs, maintenance and repair expenses, insurance, and taxes, before approving fare revisions.

If the demand of taxi and auto-rickshaw unions is accepted, auto-rickshaw base fares could rise by Rs 3, increasing the minimum fare from Rs 23 to Rs 26. For taxis, a Rs 4 hike would take the minimum fare from Rs 28 to Rs 32. Public transport unions have been advocating for this revision for three years, with the last fare adjustment having taken place in October 2022.

Adding to the demand, the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) has also submitted a proposal seeking a fare increase. MSRTC officials claim that rising operational costs and inflation necessitate a revision to sustain services.

While commuters may feel the pinch of higher fares, union leaders argue that the hike is crucial for drivers to cover escalating expenses and maintain their livelihoods.