The move comes amid rising fuel prices, increasing maintenance costs, and mounting financial pressure on drivers. The new fare chart, announced by the Shikshit Berozgar Tempo Chalak Sanchalak Sangh, marks the first official revision since 2021.

Depending on the route, passengers will pay Rs 5 more per trip.

Auto operators say the decision was unavoidable. Besides higher petrol, diesel and CNG prices, the cost of spare parts, tyres, lubricants and routine servicing has risen sharply over the past few years. According to recent fuel price data, petrol in Jamshedpur is currently hovering around Rs 105 per litre, while diesel is selling at over Rs 100 per litre and CNG prices up by Rs 9, significantly higher than levels seen a few years ago.

Fuel prices across the country have witnessed multiple upward revisions since mid-May, driven by rising crude oil prices and global market uncertainties. General Secretary of the association, Shyam Jha, said the fare revision was aimed at helping drivers cope with escalating operating expenses while ensuring the sustainability of public transport services.

The announcement has drawn mixed reactions from commuters. While many acknowledged the challenges faced by drivers, they expressed concern over the impact on household budgets. Most office-goers like me depend on autos for the last-mile journey. The increase may seem small, but when you travel twice every day, the monthly expense rises noticeably,” said Amit Sinha, a resident of Baridih.

Another commuter, Sunita Devi, who travels regularly between Sakchi and Mango, said, “Prices of essentials are already high. Now transport costs are going up too. For families with fixed incomes, every extra rupee matters.” Transport observers note that the fare hike reflects broader inflationary pressures affecting the urban transport sector.

With fuel remaining one of the largest operational expenses for auto-rickshaw owners, operators argue that periodic fare revisions are necessary to maintain viability. The revised fare chart prepared by the association will be applicable on all designated routes originating from Sakchi and connecting major localities including Mango, Sonari, Kadma, Bistupur, Adityapur, Gamharia and Kandra from Friday.

The post Jamshedpur Commuters Brace for Costlier Rides as Auto Fares Go Up appeared first on Udit Vani.