Maharashtra government cracks down on illegal bike taxis

The Maharashtra state government has introduced the "Maharashtra Bike Taxi Rules, 2025" to regularise the sector and curb unlicensed operations. Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik announced that a daily fee of ₹5 will be levied on bike‑taxi operators and 2% of each fare will go to a welfare fund for drivers. From 1 August 2026, a domicile certificate will be mandatory for anyone applying for a driving licence in the state.

Authorities estimate 400,000–450,000 unauthorized bike taxis operate in Mumbai and surrounding areas, costing the government revenue. Temporary licences were granted to Uber, Rapido and Ola on the condition they use electric‑vehicle bikes; only one company complied. Enforcement actions between April 2025 and March 2026 seized 151 vehicles, registered 14 FIRs and collected roughly ₹16.25 lakh in fines, with further penalties imposed in early 2026.

The measures aim to generate state revenue, create jobs for youth, improve passenger safety—especially for women, students and minors—and reduce traffic congestion caused by food‑delivery two‑wheelers.