Public Transport Fares: Hikes and Subsidies

The Namma Metro in Bengaluru is planning to increase fares by up to 5% every year starting in February 2026.

This decision is based on recommendations from a committee.

The metro system already had a big fare increase in 2025, which made it the most expensive in the country.

Many people are upset because they think public transport is becoming too expensive.

The metro is also offering discounts during off-peak hours and on Sundays and national holidays.

In Mumbai, the Mahayuti government has proposed a 50% fare reduction for women on BEST buses.

However, experts say this will put a financial burden on the already struggling BEST and the BMC.

BEST relies heavily on grants from the BMC and has a large deficit.

Experts suggest that BEST should find other ways to make money instead of cutting fares.

The BMC's own financial position has weakened over the past three years, making it harder to support BEST.