Jammu and Kashmir Government Announces 18 Percent Fare Hike for Commercial Vehicles

JAMMU, APRIL 29, 2026The Government of Jammu and Kashmir has officially sanctioned a significant increase in passenger fares for commercial vehicles across the Union Territory.

In a notification issued by the Transport Department under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, the government has directed the Transport Commissioner to implement an 18% fare hike over existing rates.

This revision applies to a wide range of public transport, including big buses, medium and mini-buses, and various categories of taxi and maxi cabs ranging from base models like the Sumo and Bolero to premium segment vehicles such as the Innova and Fortuner.

Petrol-version auto-rickshaws and stage carriages like the Tata Magic are also covered under this uniform 18% increase.In addition to the percentage-based hikes for fuel-powered vehicles, the government has established specific fixed fare structures for electric transport to regulate the growing e-mobility sector.

The fare for e-rickshaws has been set at ₹15 per kilometer. For e-autos, the rate is now fixed at ₹25 for the first kilometer and ₹20 for every subsequent kilometer These measures, signed by Secretary to the Government Piyush Singla, aim to balance the operational costs for transporters while providing a clear and regulated pricing framework for the general public.

The new fare structure partially modifies previous rates established in March 2021 and takes effect immediately. By streamlining the rates for both traditional and electric commercial vehicles, the administration seeks to ensure the sustainability of the transport sector amidst changing economic conditions.

Commuters are advised to take note of these updated rates for their daily travel, as the Transport Department moves to update fare charts across all districts in the Jammu and Kashmir divisions.