Mumbai: Maharashtra Auto Rickshaw Driver-Owner Association's Joint Action Committee has announced a statewide protest on May 21, 2025, opposing the state government's recent approval of e-bike taxis. The protest will be held in front of all Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) across Maharashtra.
The decision to launch the agitation was finalized during a meeting of the Joint Action Committee on April 27. The committee, representing over 1.5 million auto-rickshaw drivers across the state, has called the move a direct threat to their livelihoods.
The Maharashtra government, under Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Ministers Ajit Pawar and Eknath Shinde, approved the introduction of e-bike taxis in April 2025. The initiative is aimed at promoting affordable, eco-friendly transport options while generating self-employment opportunities for unemployed youth.
However, rickshaw unions argue that the approval process was unilateral and lacked adequate consultation with stakeholders who would be most affected. “Thousands of families depend on auto-rickshaws to make a living. The introduction of e-bike taxis without adequate consultation is a direct threat to their daily earnings,” said a senior union leader.
The unions fear that the new service will lead to unregulated competition, significantly impacting the income of existing rickshaw drivers. They have also voiced concerns over the government's neglect of welfare policies for auto-rickshaw drivers and demanded that attention instead be given to strengthening existing support systems.
"Instead of introducing a new service that harms our livelihoods, the state should strengthen existing policies to protect the rickshaw drivers who have been the backbone of public transport for decades," the union leader added.
When contacted a transport department official has defended its move, stating that e-bike taxis will serve as a safer and more cost-effective option, especially for solo travelers. Authorities have assured that safety measures will be enforced, including protective covers during the monsoon season and physical barriers between riders and female passengers to ensure privacy.
