In a significant step to regulate app-based transport services, the Maharashtra government has initiated the enforcement of a comprehensive new Aggregator Policy. This policy mandates that ride-hailing companies adhere strictly to state-mandated rules and conditions for their operations.
The Transport Minister of Maharashtra, Pratap Sarnaik, announced that the policy focuses on ensuring passenger safety, protecting drivers’ financial interests, preventing monopolistic practices, and creating sustainable job opportunities for local youth while generating legitimate revenue for the state. The absence of uniform regulations for app-based transport had previously led to issues such as passenger safety concerns, arbitrary surge pricing, delayed grievance redressal, and loss of state revenue.
Under the new policy, every aggregator company must obtain a license from the State Transport Authority. The state will introduce a dedicated online portal for real-time monitoring to track vehicles through GPS, verify drivers, and take immediate action against violators to ensure compliance. The policy also stipulates that drivers must receive a minimum of 80% of the total fare collected to protect them from predatory commission rates, with base fares determined by the Regional Transport Authority (RTA).
To promote fair business practices, strict limits will be imposed on surge pricing, preventing companies from imposing excessive rates during peak hours. The policy also restricts the registration of vehicles on a single app platform to 50 in major cities like Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, and Nagpur, and 25 in other parts of the state to enhance equitable business opportunities.
