The Tamil Nadu government has announced a significant revision of auto-rickshaw fares across the state, doubling the minimum charge to ₹50 for the initial 1.8 kilometers. This updated fare structure, which came into effect on October 27, 2026, marks the first change in over 13 years, replacing rates that had been in place since August 2013.
The decision follows persistent protests and demands from auto-rickshaw drivers who cited escalating operational costs, including rising fuel prices, insurance premiums, and vehicle maintenance. The new rates apply to contract carriage auto-rickshaws operating within the Chennai Metropolitan Area and other districts of Tamil Nadu.
New Fare Structure Details
Under the revised guidelines, passengers will now pay ₹50 for the first 1.8 kilometers of their journey. For every subsequent kilometer, the charge has been set at ₹25. This is a substantial increase from the previous structure, which mandated a minimum fare of ₹25 for the same initial distance and ₹12 for each additional kilometer.
The government notification, issued by the Home Department (Transport-I) under Section 67(1) of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, also specifies differentiated rates for various travel conditions:
- Ghat Roads: A minimum fare of ₹60 is applicable, with an additional ₹30 for every kilometer traveled thereafter.
- Waiting Charge: If an auto-rickshaw is required to wait during a journey, a charge of ₹1 per minute will be levied.
- Night Fares: Journeys undertaken between 10 pm and 5 am will incur a charge of 1.5 times the regular daytime fare.
Why the Revision?
The previous fare structure, stagnant for over a decade, had become a point of contention for auto-rickshaw drivers. They argued that the old rates were unsustainable given the economic realities of operating a vehicle. The Tamil Nadu government's move aims to address these concerns, providing relief to drivers while adjusting the cost of public transport for commuters.
Transport authorities across Tamil Nadu have been directed to implement these revised rates immediately, impacting daily commutes and travel costs for millions across the state.