Karnataka BJP stages protest outside Bengaluru Metro stations amid fare hike | Bengaluru

Bengaluru witnessed protests at multiple metro stations as Karnataka’s BJP unit opposed the recent fare hike introduced by Namma Metro on February 9. Party members demanded that Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) roll back the increased rates to ensure public transport remains affordable for daily commuters.

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The protests took place at key metro stations, including Indiranagar, MG Road, Yeshwantpur, and Jayanagar, where BJP workers held placards and raised slogans against the ruling Congress government. A delegation from the party also visited the BMRCL office, formally submitting a request to revoke the revised fares.

BJP leaders, including MPs Tejasvi Surya and PC Mohan, strongly criticized the Karnataka government for allowing a fare hike of 40-90%. Surya pointed out that Bengaluru commuters are now paying nearly twice as much as those using the Delhi Metro for similar distances. “Instead of promoting public transport and discouraging private vehicle usage, the Karnataka government is doing the opposite with this fare hike. While a 12 km ride in Delhi costs ₹30, Bengaluru commuters now have to pay ₹60—double the price. The overall increase, with the maximum fare rising from ₹60 to ₹90, is completely unreasonable,” he stated.

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With metro fares now significantly higher, many daily commuters are rethinking their travel options. Some are even considering switching to personal vehicles, arguing that it may be more economical than the revised metro prices.

Meanwhile, BMRCL defended its decision, clarifying that the minimum fare for short distances (up to 2 km) remains unchanged at ₹10. For longer journeys exceeding 25 km, the highest fare is now set at ₹90. The corporation stated that the fare adjustments were based on recommendations from the Fare Fixation Committee.