Mumbai: The Maharashtra cabinet on Tuesday approved a policy for electric-bike taxis in urban areas, aiming to provide a convenient and affordable transport option for single passengers traveling up to 15 km.
State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, speaking to reporters after the weekly cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis at the Sahyadri guest house, said that e-bike taxis will be permitted with specific safety features, including a partition between the rider and passenger and a roof cover for monsoon protection.
Sarnaik clarified that while the policy has been approved, the revenue model is still being finalized and will be announced soon. Ensuring security and affordable fares will be key priorities.
As part of the initiative, children of autorickshaw and taxi drivers affiliated with government-certified corporations and boards will be eligible to apply for e-bike taxis. They will receive financial assistance of ₹10,000, with the remaining amount to be raised through loans.
The minister said the initiative is expected to generate over 10,000 jobs in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region and another 10,000 across the rest of the state.
“This is the first step toward a pollution-free Maharashtra,” Sarnaik stated. “We will regulate the fares, ensuring that a journey costing ₹100 can be made more affordable, ideally around ₹30-40.”
The move aligns with the state’s broader efforts to promote eco-friendly transportation and reduce urban congestion.