Bike Taxi Rules Maharashtra: Big news for bike, taxi owners. Addressing the growing concern over bike taxis in Mumbai and its surrounding areas, Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik acknowledged that the government was not receiving any revenue from this service. In a Legislative Assembly discussion on the issue of unauthorized bike taxis, it was highlighted that regulating bike taxi operations would not only generate income but also provide job opportunities for the state’s youth.
In response to a query by MLA Dilip Lande, Minister Pratap Sarnaik revealed that the state cabinet had approved the operation of electric vehicle (EV) bike taxis to mitigate pollution risks associated with conventional petrol bikes. Temporary licenses were granted to Ola, Uber, and Rapido for bike taxi services, but only one company complied with the EV mandate. Subsequently, action was taken against those operating petrol-based bike taxis.
It was disclosed by Pratap Sarnaik that an estimated four to four and a half lakh unauthorized bike taxis were currently operating in Mumbai and its environs, depriving the government of revenue. To address this issue, decisions were made during a meeting chaired by the Chief Minister.
New regulations have been introduced to facilitate employment opportunities for Maharashtra’s youth. Individuals seeking to operate bike taxis must now pay a daily fee of five rupees to the government. Additionally, two percent of each ride’s fare will be allocated to welfare programs. Only individuals with valid domicile certificates will be permitted to operate bike taxis, thereby reducing illegal operations and increasing government revenue.
Furthermore, steps will be taken against two-wheeler riders delivering food under companies like Zomato and Swiggy, who are causing traffic congestion and safety concerns. Minister Pratap Sarnaik assured that action would be taken through the Regional Transport Office (RTO) to address these issues.
The operation of unauthorized bike taxi services by Ola, Uber, Rapido, and other apps without government approval and compliance with transport regulations poses a safety risk to passengers, particularly women, students, and minors, as highlighted by MLA Dilip Lande from Chandivali Assembly constituency in Mumbai.