2 days ago
Bike Taxi Blues: RTO Calls For Views On Policy, Day Before Deadline Ends
Nagpur: Even though June 5 was the last date for submitting suggestions on Maharashtra's proposed bike taxi policy, the Nagpur Regional Transport Office (RTO) on Thursday invited public objections only on the final day, raising eyebrows over delayed communication and citizen outreach.
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The draft rules, aimed at legalising two-wheeler taxi services in cities with over one lakh population, were issued by the state govt on May 22, but local-level awareness came tad too late.
The state transport department's draft "Maharashtra Bike-Taxi Rules, 2025" lays out comprehensive aggregator policy for launching shared two-wheeler taxi services. Proposed rules make it mandatory for service providers to own at least 50 electric two-wheelers & apply for an aggregator licence using Form-1.
Additional conditions include app-based booking systems, a fare structure, complaint redressal mechanism, & safety norms.
In Nagpur, regional transport officer Kiran Bidkar told TOI the directive to seek public feedback was received the state transport commissioner's office headed by Vivek Bhimanwar only recently. "The last date was June 5. But since we got the instructions a couple of days ago, we are now inviting feedback from citizens.
The govt may still consider the inputs," he said.
However, transport activists criticised the timing, calling it a failure of public engagement. "This is a significant policy that impacts urban mobility, delivery workers, and unemployed youth looking to join the gig economy. Why was the public not informed in time?" said an auto-rickshaw union leader who preferred anonymity.
The draft rules created a buzz among startups and delivery platforms, which have long demanded legalisation of two-wheeler taxis.
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The policy could open doors for app-based services similar to those in other metro cities, providing affordable and faster last-mile connectivity. Still, concerns remain over traffic regulation, safety, insurance compliance, and impact on auto-rickshaw drivers.
The RTO has asked citizens to send their suggestions or objections in writing or visit the city RTO office directly. However, with the official deadline now over, it remains unclear how long the window for feedback will remain open or whether new inputs will officially be incorporated into the final version submitted to the govt.
Despite the communication lapse, RTO officials insisted they are committed to transparency & inclusivity in implementing the policy.
