29-07-2025
'Maha-Yatri', 'Maha-Go': Maharashtra Mulls Names For State App For Rickshaw, Taxi, E-Bike Services
Maharashtra Transport Minister criticised existing private aggregators for exploiting drivers and passengers alike, and said the state's app would address these issues head-on.
In a bold move aimed at creating employment opportunities for local youth and challenging the dominance of private ride-hailing platforms, the Maharashtra government is all set to launch its own app-based transport service. This state-backed platform will include autorickshaws, taxis, and e-bikes, and is expected to go live soon after approval from the top leadership.
Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik announced that the government, in collaboration with the transport department, is developing the app under proposed names like 'Jai Maharashtra', 'Maha-Ride', 'Maha-Yatri' or 'Maha-Go'. He stressed that this initiative would no longer restrict the ride-hailing ecosystem to private players and would offer a transparent, fair, and reliable alternative. 'The final go-ahead will come from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy CMs Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar," Sarnaik said confidently.
The app is being developed with technical input from the Maharashtra Institute for Transport Technology and MITRA, alongside consultations with private firms. Designed to bring transparency and efficiency, it will be backed by strong government infrastructure and manpower—giving it an edge over existing operators.
Sarnaik highlighted that this app will follow the Central Aggregator Guidelines, with its policy framework in the final stage. He criticised existing private aggregators for exploiting drivers and passengers alike, and said the state's app would address these issues head-on. 'We have the technology, resources, and manpower to make this work in the public interest," he added.
A decisive meeting is scheduled for August 5 at Mantralaya, where Darekar, government officials, and technical teams will finalise the app's structure and operational plan. 'This initiative will not only make thousands of youth self-reliant but also end the monopoly of private aggregators. It's time for Maharashtra to have a people-centric ride-hailing solution," Sarnaik said.
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