After 7.5 years, Bangalore Metro announces annual fare hike, caps increase at 5%

Bangalore Metro Fare Hike Announced: After 7.5 years, Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has announced a revision in its fare structure on Thursday, February 5. As per the First Fare Fixation Committee (FFC) constituted under the Metro Railway (Operation and Maintenance) Act, 2002, BMRCL fares have been increased from a minimum of Rs 1 to a maximum of Rs 5.

Fare zones reduced, average hike at 51.55%

The number of fare zones has also been reduced from 29 to 10, resulting in an average fare increase of 51.55 per cent.

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Annual automatic fare revision formula introduced

To avoid such irregular and sharp fare hikes in future, the Committee, in its report, has recommended revising the fares annually through a transparent annual automatic fare revision formula. This formula will be added to the operating and maintenance (O&M) cost or 5 per cent per annum, whichever is lower, and rounded to the nearest rupee. This arrangement will allow for minor adjustments to the annual rent.

New fare revision to take effect from February 9, 2026

"In keeping with the recommendations of the FFC, which is binding on BMRCL, it is hereby notified that an Annual Automatic Fare Revision will be implemented with effect from 9 February 2026, on expiry of 1 year from the date of implementation of the FFC's recommended fares by BMRCL (9th February 2025). The marginal increase ranges from Rs. 1 to Rs. 5 across 10 fare zones on its entire network of 96.10 Kms," the press release said.

Fare increase capped at 5% despite higher cost escalation

Comparing the audited financial data for the financial year 2024-25 (31st March 2025) with the base data for the financial year 2023-24 (31st March 2024), the formula-based index shows a cost escalation of 10.20 per cent; however, in line with the provision of FFC, fare revision has been restricted to only 5 per cent.

Smart card and NCMC discounts to continue

Importantly, BMRCL will continue to offer all existing passenger-friendly discounts for smart-card/NCMC users, including 5 per cent during peak hours, 10 per cent during off-peak hours and 10 per cent on Sundays and three scheduled national holidays.

Tourist cards and group tickets to see an annual revision too

An annual increase of 5 per cent will also be applicable on tourist cards/group tickets.

BMRCL emphasises financial sustainability and service quality

BMRCL emphasises that the aim of this small annual revision is to ensure financial stability and service reliability, as well as to avoid the need for large and sudden fare increases in the future. This approach allows fares to rise gradually in line with inflation and operating costs, thereby protecting passengers from sudden and irregular fare increases.

As per the release, it is mentioned, "BMRCL remains committed to providing safe, reliable, punctual and affordable metro services to the citizens of Bengaluru. BMRCL will continue to balance commuter affordability with the need to maintain high standards of maintenance, safety, and service quality across its expanding network."

With ANI Inputs