Daijiworld Media Network – Navi Mumbai
Navi Mumbai, Jan 1: As the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) made its commercial debut on Christmas Day, passengers arriving at the newly opened terminal are being welcomed with a key convenience on the ground — fixed and transparent taxi and auto-rickshaw fares.
Operations at NMIA commenced on December 25, and in a bid to avoid fare disputes and overcharging, authorities have introduced a prepaid fare system for taxis and autorickshaws operating from the airport.
According to officials, the prepaid fare structure has been finalised under the supervision of the Assistant Regional Transport Officer (ARTO), Panvel. The move aims to provide passengers, especially first-time users of the airport, a smooth and predictable travel experience from the moment they land.
Under the new system, prepaid taxi fares have been fixed at a base rate of Rs 20.66 per kilometre. Passengers travelling up to 6 km will be charged Rs 155, which includes a 25 per cent incentive for drivers. For longer distances, fares have been clearly defined in slabs — Rs 207 for 6.1 to 8 km, Rs 258 for 8.1 to 10 km, Rs 310 for 10.1 to 12 km and Rs 347 for 12.1 to 14 km, the latter including a 20 per cent incentive.
For extended journeys, fares gradually increase, with trips between 40.1 km and 42 km costing Rs 998. Beyond 42 km, charges will be calculated in increments of two kilometres.
The ARTO has made it clear that only authorised prepaid taxi and auto-rickshaw stands will be permitted to operate at NMIA and other major transport hubs. Officials said the system is expected to improve passenger safety, enhance transparency in pricing and eliminate arguments over fares.
NMIA’s first day of operations was marked by ceremonial water cannon salutes as inaugural flights landed and departed. Domestic services on the opening day were operated by IndiGo, Air India Express, Akasa Air and Star Air.
The launch of the greenfield airport comes after decades of planning. First conceived by CIDCO in 1997, the project faced multiple delays, including setbacks during the COVID-19 pandemic. Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone in 2018, and the airport was formally inaugurated on October 8 this year.
With flight operations underway and fare clarity ensured on the ground, NMIA is expected to significantly ease congestion at Mumbai’s existing airport while offering passengers a more seamless travel experience.