The Maharashtra Transport Department has initiated action against companies like Rapido, Uber, and Ola for operating bike taxi services without valid licenses in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. Authorities have found that these companies are offering passenger transport services via their apps without obtaining the mandatory permits under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 and the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines, 2020.
As per Section 66 of the Motor Vehicles Act, private vehicles cannot be used for passenger transport. Violations of this provision attract penalties and legal consequences under Section 192. The unauthorized use of such services not only defrauds the government and commuters but also raises serious concerns about passenger safety, officials stated.
During enforcement drives, two illegal bike taxis were found operating, and a case has been registered at Azad Maidan Police Station against the Rapido and Uber apps. A complaint has also been filed against the Ola app. All Regional and Sub-Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) have been directed to take strict action under the law against such illegal operations.
The Assistant Transport Commissioner has urged citizens to use only licensed transport services to ensure their safety. Citizens are also encouraged to report any information about illegal vehicle services to authorities, who have assured appropriate action in such cases.
