Vadodara commuters will soon have to pay higher auto-rickshaw fares as the city’s auto-rickshaw operators have decided to increase the minimum fare by ₹10 from July 1, 2026. The decision comes in response to the continuous rise in CNG and petrol prices, which have significantly increased operational costs for drivers.
According to the Vadodara Auto Rickshaw Union, the current minimum fare of ₹20 is no longer financially viable for drivers. As a result, passengers will now have to pay a minimum fare of ₹30 for auto-rickshaw rides within the city.
More Than 80,000 Rickshaw Drivers to Benefit
Vadodara is home to more than 80,000 auto-rickshaw drivers who depend on daily earnings to support their families. Union leaders have stated that increasing fuel costs, maintenance expenses, and inflation have made it difficult for drivers to sustain operations under the existing fare structure.
Fare Revision Announced by Rickshaw Union
Bilal Parmar, President of the Vadodara Auto Rickshaw Union, announced the fare revision and emphasized that the decision was taken after considering the financial challenges faced by drivers. The union believes the revised fare will help offset rising expenses while ensuring that public transport services remain available and sustainable across the city.
New Fare Structure Effective July 1
Under the revised fare structure:
| Fare Category | Current Fare | New Fare (From July 1, 2026) |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Auto Fare | ₹20 | ₹30 |
| Increase | – | ₹10 |
Passengers using auto-rickshaws for short-distance travel will be directly affected by the revised rates.
Why Are Fares Increasing?
Several factors have contributed to the fare hike:
- Continuous increase in CNG prices
- Rising petrol costs
- Higher vehicle maintenance expenses
- Inflation affecting daily operations
- Reduced profit margins for drivers
Impact on Daily Commuters
The fare increase is expected to impact thousands of daily commuters, including students, office workers, and local travelers who rely on auto-rickshaws for transportation. While passengers may face higher travel costs, union representatives argue that the increase is necessary to maintain the livelihood of drivers and ensure uninterrupted transport services.
Implementation From July 1, 2026
The revised fare structure will officially come into effect from July 1, 2026. Auto-rickshaw operators across Vadodara are expected to implement the new rates following the union’s announcement. Further discussions with local authorities and transport departments may take place regarding fare regulation and passenger awareness initiatives.
Also read, Surat Metro Work Prompts Night Traffic Diversions Near Sahara Darwaja
Watch Latest News Videos on KRH News: Click Here