Bengaluru, 22 May

Despite the recent hike in metro fares, the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has introduced user charges for toilet facilities at Namma Metro stations, triggering widespread public backlash.

According to BMRCL sources, passengers will now be required to pay between Rs 2 and Rs 5 to access toilets at select metro stations. Staff have been deployed to collect the charges, and signage indicating the new rates has been installed.

In the initial phase, the charges will apply at stations including National College, Lalbagh, South End Circle, Jayanagar, RV Road, Banashankari, JP Nagar, Yelachenahalli, Sir M Visvesvaraya Station, Dr BR Ambedkar Station – Vidhana Soudha, Cubbon Park, and KSR Railway Station.

Commuters have voiced strong opposition, arguing that access to sanitation at public transport hubs should be free. Many have labelled the fee a “daylight tax” on essential services, calling it unjust and burdensome, particularly after recent fare increases.

BMRCL officials defended the move, stating that the collected fees will fund the maintenance of cleanliness and toilet infrastructure. They clarified that the charge only applies to toilets located in the unpaid zones, which are accessible to the general public.

“Toilets in the paid areas remain free for Metro commuters,” a senior official said. The facilities are being handed over to Sulabh International, a recognised sanitation provider, for upkeep and operations.

Commuter groups, however, are demanding a rollback, warning that such policies could deter public transport usage.