Autorickshaw and kaali-peeli cab fares may increase by ₹1 to ₹3

Autorickshaws and black-and-yellow cabs(kaali-peeli) are a blessing to Mumbai, as one can use the services anytime throughout the day, without facing the need to bargain. Since the base fare is fixed, Mumbaikars do not involve in discussions regarding the pricing, which serves beneficial when compared to similar services available in other states.

However, the introduction of privately operated cabs have affected the business and keeping the same in mind, a new government resolution (GR) on a tariff-fixation formula has been issued. As per recent development, it is said that the price of autorickshaw and black-and-yellow cabs in the city may increase by ₹1 to ₹3.

App-based cabs (Uber, Ola and others) may also have a cap on the surge pricing as directed by the Bombay high court (HC). However, this will not be applicable until April 6, 2020, when the next hearing is scheduled, and no harsh steps or decisions would be taken until then.

Justice AA Sayed and Justice Anuja Prabhudesai, on Monday, were informed about the GR  issued on March 9, 2020, which stated that that the committees will decide the pricing keeping the recommendation in mind. The GR also mentions that the maximum fare app-based cabs can charge (on surge) should be no more than three times the base price (₹14.85 per kilometre) of the kaali-peeli cabs (for similar distance). This move was taken by the union to compete with the app-based cabs.

State Transport Authority (STA) has been assigned the job of revising the fare structure for Mumbai and MMR regions. State government has formed a four-member panel to analyse the report submitted by the previous panel in 2012.

Some of the accepted recommendations for autorickshaws and kaali-peeli include:

• Mandatory display of LED indicators (to know if the cab is available or not) - this will also offer additional revenue opportunity for drivers.
• Fare revisions for prepaid cabs at the airport
• Fare revision for non-app based Cool Cabs
• Addition cost for using AC in kaali-peeli 
• Lower fare commuting a longer distance: Reduction in price per-kilometre will be observed if the distance of eight kilometres and above is covered
• Uniform for drivers of app-based cabs: Sky-blue shirt, black trousers and black shoes.
• Age limit for autorickshaws and taxis: This has been set to 15 years for autos and nine years for cabs.

The taxi driver union has however opposed the decision and have stated that they may deny service if commuters want to travel a longer distance. State government officials had also rejected the idea of 'happy hour' where commuters get a 15 per cent discount if kaali-peeli cabs and autorickshaws are used between 12 pm to 4 pm.

A decision is expected to be taken by state Transport Minister Anil Parab, in a day or two, post which the procedure to implement the decision will be considered.