Mumbai: Auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) are now facing fines after missing the May 31 deadline for meter recalibration following a fare hike earlier this year. Despite repeated reminders from the Regional Transport Office (RTO), many drivers failed to update their fare meters, prompting authorities to begin enforcement action starting June 1.
The recalibration was mandated after the state government approved revised fare structures in February 2025, based on recommendations by the Khatua Committee. The revision was driven by rising fuel prices, maintenance costs, and increasing interest rates on vehicle loans. The minimum fare was increased by Rs 3, setting the new base fares at Rs 26 for auto-rickshaws and Rs 31 for taxis.
As of April 30, approximately 70% of rickshaws and taxis had completed meter recalibration. The remaining 30% were given until May 31 to comply. A total of 4.17 lakh rickshaws and 44,825 taxis are registered across the 10 RTO offices in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
However, according to transport department officials, a significant number of drivers failed to meet the deadline, leading to the implementation of fines. As per the rules, drivers whose vehicle meters have not been recalibrated are not eligible to charge fares according to the new rates.
“Starting June 1, drivers whose meters have not been recalibrated are being fined ₹50 per day.” confirmed a senior transport department official. “All RTOs in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region have been instructed to begin levying these penalties.”
There is also growing confusion among drivers. Many believe the deadline has been extended, though no official extension has been announced. Several driver unions have urged the government to provide more time, citing delays due to technical issues and high demand at calibration centres. One prominent union has requested an extension of the deadline to September 2025.
Despite the confusion, the state transport department remains firm. “The daily fine process has already started and no new directives regarding an extension have been issued,” a senior official clarified.
"While the majority of vehicles are now compliant, a sizable number are still pending recalibration. Enforcement teams from various RTOs have begun spot checks across MMR to ensure compliance," the official further added.
Number of Vehicles metre Recalibrated in Mumbai
Rickshaws:
Wadala RTO: 50,800 recalibrated
Andheri RTO: 40,400 recalibrated
Borivali RTO: 50,400 recalibrated
Taxis:
Mumbai Central RTO: 21,300 recalibrated
Wadala RTO: 5,300 recalibrated
Andheri RTO: 2,750 recalibrated
Borivali RTO: 4,360 recalibrated
