Auto and taxi fares to increase in Kerala from January 1

The Kerala government has taken an in-principle decision to increase auto-rickshaw and taxi fares in the state, which will be implemented from January 1, 2027. According to a report by 'The Hindu', this significant decision was taken at a meeting held in Thiruvananthapuram on Wednesday between state Transport Minister C. P. John and representatives of auto-taxi trade unions. With the government accepting the demand for a fare hike, operators have officially called off the proposed 24-hour strike scheduled for Thursday.

Speaking to the media after the meeting, Minister C. P. John stated that the government will constitute a special commission for fare revision. This commission will study the proposed fare hike and unions will also be given an opportunity to present their views. The final decision on the extent of the fare hike will be taken based on the commission's report. The Minister clarified that the fares were last revised on April 22, 2022, so preparations have begun to implement the new rates from January 1, considering the current situation. Currently, the unions have demanded an increase in the minimum fare from ₹30 to ₹50.

In addition to the fare hike, the government has assured positive consideration of several other important demands of the trade unions. These demands include providing Employees' State Insurance (ESI) coverage for auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers. Furthermore, the government is working seriously on demands to impose strict controls on two-wheeler taxis operating illegally without yellow number plates and to provide rest room facilities for drivers at hotels or other public places. The Minister mentioned that discussions have been held with the tourism department and hotel owners regarding rest facilities for drivers.

Regarding illegal two-wheeler taxis, the Minister said that two-wheeler taxis are permitted in the state, but it has been observed that some taxis are using white number plates instead of the mandatory yellow number plates. The government will now take strict action against such irregularities. Union representatives have welcomed this decision of the government, and the general public has received relief as the strike has been called off.

In the past as well, negotiations have taken place between unions and the government on the issue of fare hikes, in which an attempt is made to maintain a balance between the convenience of passengers and the financial condition of the drivers.