Transport Department Announces 18% Hike in Commercial Passenger Vehicle Fares in J&K
The Government of Jammu and Kashmir has announced an 18% increase in fares for commercial passenger vehicles across the Union Territory. The decision was issued by the Transport Department, Civil Secretariat, J&K, through an official notification dated April 29, 2026.
According to the order, the revised fare structure applies to multiple categories of passenger transport vehicles, including buses, taxis, maxi cabs, auto-rickshaws, and stage carriages.
Vehicles Covered Under Fare Hike
The 18% fare increase will apply to:
- Big Buses (Stage Carriages)
- Medium / Mini Buses (Stage Carriages)
- Taxi / Maxi Cabs (Base models like Sumo, Bolero, Tata Indica, Swift, Tata Winger, Tempo Traveller, etc.)
- Medium Segment Tourist Taxis (Tavera, Scorpio, Xylo, etc.)
- Premium Tourist Taxis (Innova, Fortuner, etc.)
- Auto Rickshaws (Petrol Version)
- Stage Carriages such as Tata Magic (Auto)
Separate Rates for E-Rickshaws & E-Autos
The government has also fixed specific fares for electric passenger vehicles:
- E-rickshaws: ₹15 per kilometre
- E-autos: ₹25 for the first kilometre and ₹20 for every additional kilometre
Official Order
The notification was issued under the powers conferred by the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, and signed by Dr. Piyush Singla (IAS), Secretary to Government, Transport Department.
Impact on Public Transport Users
The revised fares are expected to impact daily commuters, tourists, and passengers using public transport services across Jammu and Kashmir. Operators had been demanding fare revisions due to rising fuel prices, maintenance costs, and inflation.
Passengers are advised to check updated fare charts with transport operators in the coming days.
