Auto fares rise by ₹5–10 across Kolkata on key routes

Commuters across Kolkata are facing higher travel costs after auto-rickshaw fares increased by ₹5 to ₹10 on several routes, following a sharp rise in auto gas prices. The hike, which came into effect from Monday, has added to the financial burden of daily passengers and triggered widespread dissatisfaction at the start of the week.

The fare revision comes after auto gas prices surged by around ₹13 per litre within a week. According to available figures, the price rose from ₹62.68 per litre to ₹70.68 per litre in a matter of days, following an earlier increase of ₹5. The impact is already visible on key routes such as Ultadanga to Salt Lake Sector V, where fares have gone up by ₹5, taking the total to ₹40. Other nearby routes, including Tank No. 12 and Susrut Hospital, have also seen increases.

Similar fare hikes have been reported across North and parts of South Kolkata. On routes like Phoolbagan–Girish Park and Maniktala, fares have risen by ₹2–₹3, while on the Sinthi More to Dum Dum Station route, charges have increased from ₹10 to ₹15. Although some southern routes have not officially revised fares, passengers have alleged that drivers are charging an additional ₹5–₹10.

Auto unions have defended the hike, citing rising fuel costs and supply constraints, while indicating that fares may be reduced if prices stabilise. Meanwhile, transport officials have acknowledged the lack of a clear regulatory framework governing auto fares, allowing unions to set rates independently. Authorities are currently monitoring the situation as concerns grow over the increasing cost of daily commuting.