Ask anyone in Dhaka about CNG fares and you will hear the same story: "The meter says one thing, the driver says another." This guide explains the official rate, why it rarely applies on the street, and the simplest way to pay a fair price every time.
The official CNG meter rate
The government sets a meter fare for CNG autorickshaws:
- First 2 km: Official rate ৳40
- Every km after: Official rate ৳12
- Waiting: Official rate ৳2 per minute
BRTA rules say drivers who charge above the meter can face a fine of up to ৳50,000 or up to six months in prison.
What people actually pay
In practice, very few CNG trips in Dhaka run on the meter. Passengers regularly report that even a short trip rarely costs less than ৳150 when negotiated on the street. Drivers point to high daily rental fees paid to vehicle owners, fuel costs and traffic.
The result is the daily bargaining most of us know too well: you name a price, the driver names a higher one, and you either give in or wait for the next CNG.
The app booked alternative
Booking a CNG through an app solves the bargaining problem. The fare is calculated from distance and time and shown before you book. On Arohon, a CNG is priced at:
- Base fare: Rate ৳70
- Per km: Rate ৳14
- Per minute: Rate ৳1.50
- Minimum fare: Rate ৳80
Plus a ৳3 safety charge and a small booking fee (৳5 below ৳200, ৳10 from ৳200 to ৳349).
Sample CNG fares
- Dhanmondi 27 to New Market: Distance and time 3 km, 15 min, Total you pay ৳143
- Mohammadpur to Farmgate: Distance and time 5 km, 25 min, Total you pay ৳186
- Mirpur 10 to Gulshan 1: Distance and time 8 km, 35 min, Total you pay ৳248
- Uttara to Mohakhali: Distance and time 12 km, 50 min, Total you pay ৳326
These are similar to what a fair street negotiation would land on, but with no argument, a tracked trip and a verified driver.
CNG or bike?
- One person, light bag: a bike is cheaper and faster.
- Two or three people: a CNG often costs less per person than separate bikes.
- Rain, luggage, or a child with you: CNG every time.
Tips for a fair CNG ride
- Book in the app so the price is fixed before the trip starts.
- Check the plate matches the one in the app before you get in.
- Share your trip with family if you are travelling at night.
- Pay cash at the end, at the fare you saw. No extra.
Keep reading
- Book a ride
- CNG Won't Go by Meter? Your Rights and What to Do
- Bike Ride Fare per km in Dhaka: 2026 Price Guide
FAQ
What is the CNG meter rate in Dhaka?
৳40 for the first 2 km, then ৳12 per km, and ৳2 per minute waiting.
Why do CNG drivers not use the meter?
Drivers cite high daily rent to owners, fuel and traffic. Enforcement has been inconsistent.
Is booking a CNG by app more expensive?
Usually not compared with what people pay on the street, and you avoid bargaining entirely. On Arohon a typical 5 km CNG trip costs about ৳186 in total.