In a move to curb illegal passenger transport and enhance commuter safety, the Maharashtra government has declared that a state domicile certificate will be required for obtaining bike-taxi permits and commercial transport licenses. This new policy directive, announced by State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik in the Maharashtra Assembly, is set to be enforced from August 1. The decision follows concerns raised by Shiv Sena MLA Dilip Lande regarding the proliferation of unregulated public transport, especially bike-taxis, posing risks to women and school students.
Highlighting the prevalence of unauthorized operators running bike-taxi services without proper registration or licenses, MLA Lande emphasized the urgent need for regulation and security measures. Responding to the debate, Minister Sarnaik acknowledged the existence of a significant gray market, estimating that around 4,00,000 to 4,5,000 app-based bike-taxis were operating without official approval in the state. He emphasized the necessity of restricting permits to individuals with valid Maharashtra Domicile Certificates to ensure order and safety.
The state’s decision signifies a shift from its previous stance of attempting to ban app-based bike-taxis altogether, opting instead to formalize and regulate the sector under a structured framework. This move comes after the Maharashtra Transport Department faced legal challenges and enforcement actions against major ride-hailing aggregators. The state’s enforcement efforts have been complicated by the use of petrol-powered two-wheelers for commercial rides, despite regulations mandating electric vehicles for bike-taxis.
The transition to a domicile-linked permit system is aimed at improving women’s safety, generating additional revenue for the state, and creating local entrepreneurship opportunities. These rules, currently under review by the Law and Judiciary Department, are part of the state government’s strategy ahead of upcoming local elections.
