Priyanka Tiwari
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Suspense crime, Digital Desk : In the wake of Karnataka's decisive ban on non-electric bike taxis, a new proposal aims to reshape Bengaluru's auto-rickshaw landscape and address the city's persistent last-mile connectivity challenges.
PC Mohan, the Member of Parliament for Bengaluru Central, has formally requested that the state government establish a new minimum fare for app-based auto-rickshaws. He argues that this change is crucial to making autos a more reliable and attractive option for commuters, especially for the short-distance trips that bike taxis once served.
In a letter to Karnataka's Transport Minister, Ramalinga Reddy, Mohan suggested a minimum fare of ₹35 for the first 1.9 kilometers for all app-based auto services like Ola and Uber. The goal is to incentivize auto drivers to accept short-distance rides, a common point of friction for passengers who often face ride refusals.
This proposal comes just days after the state government officially banned bike taxis (excluding electric ones), a move prompted by safety concerns and the fact that these services were operating without the required licenses or regulatory framework. While the ban was welcomed by auto driver unions, it left a significant gap in affordable and convenient transportation for many city residents.
By making short-distance trips more financially viable for auto drivers, Mohan hopes to integrate them more effectively into the app-based ecosystem and provide a stable, regulated alternative for Bengaluru's daily commuters. The government's decision on this proposal will be closely watched as the city continues to navigate its complex urban mobility puzzle.
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