Uber increases fares in Bhopal:Airport trips to be costlier by ₹100; Ola, Rapido to follow suit

Uber’s airport rides have become costlier in Bhopal. The minimum fare for airport rides has increased from ₹50-60 to ₹120-150. This fare hike has occurred after nearly 10 years. Ola and Rapido have also given their consent for increase in fares. A decision regarding city ride fares is expected by 25 June. The transport companies agreed to the fare revision, following pressure from the Taxi Drivers’ Association. The minimum fare for airport rides has increased by almost 100%. Rides that cost ₹220-230 are now reaching ₹270-280. Premium rides that cost ₹350 are now available for ₹440-450. There has been an increase of about 25% to 30% in the premium category. Ola agrees to increase airport fares Rajesh Kumar Nagle, general secretary of the union, informed that Uber has implemented the hike in airport ride fares. Meanwhile, the company has asked for time till 25 June to change the city ride fares. Ola has also agreed to increase airport fares. Fares increased after 10 years Shravan Kumar Sharma, acting president of the union, said there has been a partial increase in fares after about 10 years. Drivers were forced to work on low fares for a long time. “Although this increase is a relief, it is still not entirely satisfactory,” Sharma said. Rapido also asked for time The union met with Rapido officials on 23 June. The company agreed to fare reforms but requested time until 25 June 2026, to implement them. The union states that similar pressure is being put on all companies so that every driver can benefit. Decision on city rides still pending The fares for city rides operating within the city have not yet been fully changed. Companies have talked about setting the minimum fare at ₹120, but this has not yet been fully implemented on the app. If not agreed upon, there will be a boycott The Bhopal Taxi Drivers’ Association has given an ultimatum to all companies to implement fare reforms by 25 June. The association has warned that if the companies do not fulfil their promise, they will be boycotted throughout Bhopal. For this, a meeting of all taxi and auto unions in the city will also be called, where the future strategy will be decided. Preparation to intensify the movement The association says that companies have currently provided only partial relief. The fare is still lower compared to the rates fixed by the state government. If all demands are not met by 25 June, the movement will be intensified. If necessary, steps such as shutting down cab services, boycotting companies, and large-scale protests may also be taken, the association’s members said.