The Maharashtra government is set to legalise aggregator-based bike taxi services across the state from August 1, introducing a regulatory framework for a sector that has largely operated without formal approval. Under the new policy, bike taxi services will be allowed to function through authorised ride-hailing applications, with operators required to meet government standards and obtain necessary permissions.

The new rules will require bike taxi drivers to possess a Maharashtra domicile certificate to become eligible for permits. Drivers will also need valid licences and government-issued badges while operating only through approved and recognised aggregator platforms. The move aims to bring monitoring and accountability to bike taxi operations while ensuring that services follow official guidelines.

Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik said thousands of unauthorised bike taxi services are currently operating across the state without contributing revenue to the government. He said the new policy has been created to regulate the growing sector rather than allow unorganised operations. According to him, around 4 to 4.5 lakh unauthorised bike taxi services are currently active in Maharashtra.

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Under the proposed framework, ride aggregator companies will have to pay Rs 5 to the Maharashtra government for every bike taxi ride completed through their platforms. Additionally, aggregators will contribute 2% of the fare amount towards a welfare fund managed by the State Transport Authority’s administration. The fund is expected to provide welfare support and social security benefits to drivers working with bike taxi and other aggregator-based services.

The government said the policy is also aimed at creating employment opportunities for local youth while improving safety and regulation in the transport sector. Minister Sarnaik said the domicile requirement would help determine the connection of drivers with Maharashtra and assess factors such as their familiarity with the local language.

With the implementation of the new rules, authorities expect bike taxi services to become more organised, transparent, and accountable. The policy is designed to balance the growing demand for affordable transport options with the need to protect passenger safety, provide benefits to drivers, and generate additional revenue for the state.

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