The Maharashtra government has taken a decisive step by cancelling all temporary licences issued to ride-hailing giants Uber, Ola, and Rapido for their bike taxi services. This move follows inspections that uncovered serious compliance issues.
Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik announced the cancellations during a legislative council session on Monday. He explained that these companies failed to submit essential documentation and meet the conditions outlined in their temporary permits.
Several reasons contributed to this crackdown. First, the companies did not provide necessary paperwork within the allowed 30-day window. Second, they violated state regulations by using petrol bikes instead of the mandated electric two-wheelers. The Maharashtra E-Bike Taxi Rules, established in 2024, strictly require bike taxis to operate on 100% electric vehicles only.
Additionally, many operators employed riders from outside Maharashtra, contravening local employment policies aimed at benefiting regional youth. Critics have expressed concerns that this practice undermines efforts to create jobs for locals.
The government isn’t stopping there; it’s also launching a statewide crackdown on illegal petrol bike taxis. Vehicles found in violation of state regulations will be seized, and legal action will be initiated against both operators and companies involved.
Regional transport offices have been directed to rigorously enforce compliance with these rules. Officials have made it clear that only authorised electric bike taxis will be permitted to operate going forward. Violators face severe penalties including vehicle confiscation and potential legal repercussions.
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