Maharashtra gives in-principle approval for bike taxis

Notably, a state-appointed committee had previously advised against allowing bike taxis in congested cities like Mumbai. In response, the transport department opposed and took legal action against a private bike taxi aggregator, resulting in the discontinuation of the service, following a court ruling.

Shashank Rao, president of the Mumbai Autorickshaw Taximen’s Union, expressed his displeasure over the government’s decision, accusing it of catering to corporate interests. “In Mumbai alone, there are 2.60 lakh autorickshaws and 35,000 taxis. Across the state, there are nearly 10.5 lakh autorickshaws. The earnings of auto and taxi drivers are insufficient to support their families. Instead of addressing these issues, the government has given in-principle approval for bike taxis,” said Rao.

He further claimed that the government will struggle to regulate bike taxi aggregators, as it has failed to effectively regulate existing cab service providers. Moreover, he argued that bike taxi services would exacerbate traffic congestion, particularly near Metro and railway stations where there is insufficient parking space.