State transport minister Pratap Sarnaik said legalising private bike-taxi operations could help curb widespread unauthorised services, particularly in Mumbai
Allowing private two-wheeler owners to become ride captains could address this issue,” he said, adding that Maharashtra had around 5 lakh unauthorised bike taxi operators.
State transport minister Pratap Sarnaik said govt was awaiting detailed guidance from the Union transport ministry before taking a decision. “We are aware of what the Union transport minister has said. We are looking for more clarity and will consider the proposal once we receive further details,” Sarnaik told TOI . The minister said legalising private bike-taxi operations could help curb widespread unauthorised services, particularly in Mumbai.
Pune: Maharashtra may soon permit private two-wheeler owners to legally operate bike taxis, a move that could bring nearly five lakh unauthorised operators under a formal regulatory framework. The proposal follows Union road transport minister Nitin Gadkari ’s call for states to allow private bike owners to offer taxi services to boost livelihood opportunities. At present, Maharashtra permits only electric two-wheelers with commercial licences to operate as bike taxis. “Many people with regular jobs switch on aggregator apps while commuting to earn extra income.
Residents said bike taxis could provide a cheaper and more reliable option for short-distance travel. Bike taxis are the need of the hour,” Katraj resident Pratham Vyas said. The state is, however, unlikely to open the sector to petrol-powered two-wheelers, with govt remaining committed to its EV policy. “Pune doesn’t have proper public transportation. Autorickshaw drivers often refuse short rides, while PMPML buses are unreliable.
NIBM Road resident Preeti N said stricter safeguards would be needed before she considers using bike taxis, especially during late-night travel. “Unless there are women bike taxi riders and stronger safety checks, many women may be hesitant to use the service,” she added. RTO sources indicated that bike taxi operations in Pune could begin within the next two months if approvals were granted on schedule. Safety, however, remains a key concern, particularly among women commuters.