Besides Ola, Uber, and Rapido, the other applicants are M/s Komorebi Tech Solutions Private Limited (which operates Cityflo), M/s Shalini Cars, and Allmiles
The policy lays down several conditions, including a cap on the number of cabs that can operate in different cities, a real-time online monitoring system for drivers, a 24×7 customer support centre, mandatory driver badges, and a provision requiring drivers to receive at least 80% of the total fare. The aggregators have been asked to complete the process at the earliest so that the policy can be implemented without unnecessary delays,” an official said.
State transport minister Pratap Sarnaik said no punitive action would be taken against the companies’ existing operations for now, as they have formally applied for licences. Non-compliance will result in the applications being rejected,” Sarnaik said. Transport department officials said the companies could submit the documents at any time during the three-month window but have been asked not to delay the process. Officials said the applications, submitted to the state transport commissioner’s office, indicate that the companies intend to operate across Maharashtra. Every day, passengers are overcharged or face other issues, but the RTO and transport department appear to ignore them,” said Ratin Dahal, a daily commuter. No leeway will be granted to non-compliant and dangerous vehicles,” Sarnaik said.
However, the applicants have been given three months to submit all documents required under the policy. “The aggregator policy has several conditions and requirements that must be fulfilled. The companies now have three months to furnish the necessary documents, following which a decision will be taken on whether to approve their operations. “Once the documents are submitted, they will be carefully vetted by the department. The department will verify their submissions against a prescribed checklist and, if found satisfactory, forward them to the State Transport Authority (STA) for final approval. In Pune, Uber and Rapido have also applied for permission to operate bike taxis. Commuters, however, noted that the key concerns remain unchecked overcharging and ride refusals. “Policies and licences sound good, but the real question is whether the fleecing of commuters will stop. “Passenger safety is the top priority.