In a significant move to regulate and streamline the operations of bike-taxi services across the state, the Maharashtra Transport Department has issued a comprehensive set of operational and safety guidelines aimed at ensuring the safety, convenience, and rights of both passengers and drivers. As per notification, yellow-colored vehicles with reflective “Bike Taxi” markings will be mandatory.
For passenger safety, the state has made it mandatory for bike-taxi operators to provide clean, hygienic, and yellow-colored helmets for each ride. Additionally, a physical separator between the rider and driver, protective covers during the rainy season, and GPS tracking systems are now required features. Services must be suspended during extreme weather conditions such as heavy rain or storms.
About The New Policy
The new policy framework sets out stringent conditions for bike-taxi aggregators, including rules about passenger eligibility, safety protocols, fare regulations, and accountability for violations. Among the key highlights, carrying passengers below the age of 12 is now strictly prohibited, and only one pillion rider is permitted per trip.
Special provisions include giving female passengers the option to choose female drivers, prohibiting the sharing of women drivers’ contact information, and promoting the employment of women. Additionally, regular safety training and annual health check-ups for all drivers will be mandatory. Furthermore, the speed of bike-taxis is capped at 60 km/h, and the trip distance must not exceed 15 kilometers, ensuring short, urban transit only.
All trips must follow the shortest and fastest route, and odometers will determine fare calculations. The fare must be communicated clearly through the app or other means before the ride begins and cannot exceed limits set by the Regional or State Transport Authority.
Each bike-taxi must maintain a daily log and adhere to guidelines regarding the transport of personal belongings—only small backpacks or briefcases are allowed. Transporting unhygienic or potentially damaging items is strictly forbidden.
The Transport Department also requires real-time GPS monitoring of bike-taxis, with data made available to law enforcement agencies as needed. Emergency features, including helplines and panic buttons, must also be embedded in operator apps for passenger safety.
Licensing authorities have the power to off-board drivers or vehicles in the case of serious complaints, following due process. Additionally, aggregators must provide an annual compliance report certified by a designated authority, and ensure insurance coverage of at least Rs. 2 lakh for both driver and passenger in case of accidental death.
The draft emphasizes safety through mandatory GPS tracking, helmets, driver verification, and a 24×7 control room. Drivers must have a valid commercial driving license, be between 20 to 50 years of age, and possess a clean record. Street hailing is banned.
Fares cannot exceed the rates specified by transport authorities and must be disclosed upfront to riders.
Local transport authorities may define operational routes and set caps on the number of vehicles per city. The draft also allows cities to tailor specific rules to local needs, including fare caps and integration with public transport.
Any individual, partnership firm, or company intending to operate a bike-taxi service must obtain a license from the state or regional transport authorities. A license will be granted only to those who maintain a fleet of at least 50 electric bike-taxis, duly registered in Maharashtra.
Applicants are required to submit a detailed application along with a license fee of Rs. 1 lakh and a security deposit of Rs. 5 lakhs. The application must include incorporation documents, GST and PAN registration, and proof of operational infrastructure.
The license will remain valid for five years. Licensees must ensure proper maintenance, insurance, and fitness certification for each vehicle. The services must operate as contract carriages and adhere strictly to regional permit guidelines
The draft notification issued on 22nd May , invites objections and suggestions from citizens until June 5, 2025, which can be submitted to the Transport Commissioner’s office in Mumbai. “Once finalized, these rules are expected to bring much-needed clarity and structure to Maharashtra’s growing bike-taxi sector, promoting electric mobility and offering affordable last-mile connectivity” said an official.
