A major crackdown was launched against illegal bike taxi services operating without proper permits in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. The Transport Commissionerate conducted a coordinated operation through 20 special enforcement teams (“Vayuveg squads”) across Mumbai, Thane, Vasai, Vashi, and Panvel.
During the operation, action was taken against 93 vehicles, of which 85 bike taxis were seized. In addition, criminal proceedings have been initiated against unauthorized app-based aggregators found facilitating these illegal transport services.
The Transport Commissioner’s office had received several complaints about unauthorized passenger transport being conducted through mobile apps without the necessary approvals. It was observed that many operators were illegally ferrying passengers without obtaining licenses or permissions from the Transport Department, thereby deceiving both the government and commuters.
As per Section 93 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, it is mandatory for app-based transport aggregators to obtain proper permissions under the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Policy. However, several companies were found flouting the rules and operating in violation of the law.
The Transport Department has reiterated that strict action will continue against illegal operations in the interest of public safety and regulatory compliance.
