Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Puts Namma Metro Price Hike on Hold
The Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has announced the suspension of a proposed fare increase for Namma Metro services, keeping ticket prices unchanged until further notice. This decision comes just days after the corporation revealed plans for a 5 percent hike, which was scheduled to take effect from February 9, 2026.
Official Statement and Background
In an official statement released on Sunday, February 8, 2026, BMRCL clarified that the media release dated February 5, 2026, which announced the implementation of the annual fare revision, has been kept on hold pending further orders. The corporation emphasized that a final decision on revised fares will be communicated after a comprehensive review by the board. BMRCL reiterated its commitment to providing safe, reliable, and affordable metro services to the citizens of Bengaluru.
The planned increase would have raised fares by Rs 1 to Rs 5 across all 10 fare zones under the annual automatic fare revision mechanism recommended by the Fare Fixation Committee (FFC). This adjustment would have elevated the minimum fare to Rs 11 and the maximum fare to Rs 95, marking a continuation of the fare structure adjustments initiated in previous years.
Political and Public Reaction
The proposed hike drew immediate criticism from various quarters, including commuters, urban mobility experts, and opposition political parties. This backlash is reminiscent of the fare increase implemented in February 2025, which saw average rises of 51.55 percent before discounts and 46.39 percent after discounts, sparking widespread discontent.
Political leaders from both the Congress and BJP engaged in mutual blame over the issue. Notably, BJP MP Tejasvi Surya intervened by speaking with Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, who subsequently directed officials to suspend the proposed hike. This political pressure played a significant role in the corporation's decision to postpone the increase.
Mechanism and Rationale Behind Fare Revisions
According to BMRCL officials, the fare revision is part of an automatic formula prescribed by the Fare Fixation Committee, designed to help revenue grow amid inflation and increasing operational expenditures. This mechanism does not require government approvals or clearances, as it is intended to be enforced annually to support the financial sustainability of metro services and fund future development projects.
A BMRCL official explained that the proposal will be revisited and discussed before the FFC, with a report to be submitted to the central government outlining the reasons and necessity for the hike. This process ensures that fare adjustments are justified and aligned with the long-term goals of metro expansion and maintenance in Bengaluru.
Impact on Commuters and Future Outlook
The suspension of the fare hike provides temporary relief to daily commuters who rely on Namma Metro for affordable and efficient transportation. However, the underlying need for periodic fare revisions remains, as the corporation must balance affordability with the financial demands of operating and expanding the metro network.
As BMRCL awaits further board review and potential discussions with the FFC, commuters and stakeholders are advised to stay informed through official channels. The corporation's commitment to transparency and public service will be crucial in navigating future fare adjustments and maintaining trust among Bengaluru's residents.
