Mumbai Auto and Taxi Drivers Must Recalibrate Meters by November 30
Autorickshaw and black-and-yellow taxi drivers across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) have been directed to recalibrate their electronic meters by November 30 to reflect revised fares taking effect from September 1. Operators who fail to update their meters by the deadline face penal action starting December 1, including a proposed daily fine of Rs 50 up to a maximum of Rs 5,000, according to senior Regional Transport Office (RTO) officials.
The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Transport Authority (MMRTA) has instructed operators to carry out the updates in line with the new fare structure. Until individual meters undergo recalibration, drivers have been asked to charge commuters based on an official revised fare chart. Under the new structure, the minimum fare for black-and-yellow taxis rises from Rs 31 to Rs 33, while the minimum fare for autorickshaws increases from Rs 26 to Rs 27, representing a hike of Rs 2 and Rs 1 respectively.
The recalibration exercise poses a logistical challenge across the metropolitan area due to limited testing infrastructure. The MMR currently accounts for approximately 4.17 lakh registered autorickshaws and 44,825 black-and-yellow meter taxis. However, only around 15 to 20 authorised centres are available to carry out the required testing and recalibration work. With all vehicles expected to finish the transition within three months, transport operators may encounter scheduling delays and appointment bottlenecks, particularly towards the end of November.
To complete the process, an authorised dealer must remove the old seal on the meter and install an updated electronic chip programmed with the new rates. The dealer then runs a Level 1 test on the unit and issues a compliance certificate. Following this stage, the vehicle must undergo a 1.5-kilometre real-time road test conducted in the presence of RTO officials. Once the meter passes the road test and satisfies prescribed standards, the vehicle is formally cleared to charge passengers using the recalibrated meter.
Transport authorities noted that the enforcement measures and penal provisions from December 1 are intended to ensure meters accurately calculate and display the updated fares, helping reduce fare disputes between commuters and drivers across the region.
