The Maharashtra Cabinet Approved E-bike Taxis

In a move that will help single passengers going up to 15 km, the Maharashtra cabinet approved the introduction of electric-bike taxis on 1 April. The approval has been given for towns with a population of at least one lakh. This decision will encompass Mumbai as well as numerous other major centres in the state. According to state Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, the initiative will generate over 10,000 jobs in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). Apart from that, it will create an additional 10,000 jobs throughout the state. He told reporters that e-bikes that have a suitable barrier between the front and rear riders and a roof cover for monsoon weather will be permitted to transport passengers. Sarnaik made the remark following the approval of the plan to introduce electric-bike taxis in major cities at a weekly cabinet meeting.

Revenue Model Yet to be Finalised

According to Sarnaik, the cabinet has simply authorised the policy for the introduction of e-bike taxis. However, a revenue model is now being finalised and will be revealed shortly. The minister emphasised that passenger security and reasonable rates will be the top priorities. Generally speaking, a "bike taxi" is a ride-hailing service that transports customers on motorcycles or other two-wheeled vehicles. Children of taxi and autorickshaw drivers who work for government-approved companies and boards are eligible to apply for e-bike taxis, according to Sarnaik. A grant of INR 10,000 would be provided to them, and they may borrow the remaining sum. He went on to say that this is the first step in making Maharashtra pollution-free.

Tariffs will be set by the government. If one traveller must pay INR 100, the government will try to find ways to make it cost about INR 30 to 40, added the minister. The state government is carrying out a number of projects to offer citizens cutting-edge transport services, according to a statement from the Chief Minister's Office (CMO). E-bike taxis will now be permitted to operate in cities with a population of at least one lakh people after the cabinet approved the policy as part of this endeavour, according to the statement.

Guidelines that these E-bike Taxis Need to Follow

These vehicles need to be legally permitted, insured under the Motor Vehicles Act, and have a current fitness certificate. According to the official statement, the relevant Regional Transport Authority (RTA) will set the rates for e-bike taxis. The statement went on to say that bike taxis will prioritise passenger safety while offering a convenient and reasonably priced commuting choice. Only electric bike taxis are allowed to function in the transportation industry under this legislation. This project will help individuals save time on their commutes, cut down on pollution and traffic, and provide an affordable last-mile connectivity option. Furthermore, it will generate new job prospects. E-bike taxis can only be operated by drivers who are between the ages of 20 and 50. For increased convenience and safety, female passengers would be able to select drivers of their own gender, the statement further added.