Mumbai, April 22, 2025: The Maharashtra government’s new all-electric bike taxi policy aims to integrate these taxis into the mass rapid transit system, allowing for feeder services and last-mile connectivity from train stations and bus stops to commuters’ homes.
“Two-wheeler taxis will be integrated into the public transportation system through coordinated travel routes. Furthermore, a certain level of two-wheeler taxi service must be provided in urban areas lacking public transportation, says the policy document.
The policy limits bike taxis’ operating radius to 15 kilometres and applies to all Maharashtra cities with a population of 100,000 or more.
This policy is based on the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines, which were issued by India’s Ministry of Road Transport and Highways on November 27, 2020. Aggregators (agents or canvassers) must obtain a licence from the state’s regional transportation department. To begin operations, aggregators must maintain a minimum fleet of 50 taxis for their bike taxi services. According to the policy, “The driver must be between the ages of 20 and 50.”
In terms of licensing, the policy states that “the State Transport Authority will issue a single licence for the entire state to eligible applicants/entities with a minimum of 50 two-wheelers for bike taxi operations.” The licence granted for bike taxi operations is valid for five years“. Furthermore, the policy requires all two-wheelers to have valid insurance, a driver’s licence, and vehicle registration in accordance with the Motor Vehicles Act of 1989. Aggregators responsible for these vehicles are required to ensure that “the service provider must offer insurance coverage for accidents and fatalities involving both the two-wheeler driver and passenger”.
The policy also states that “all two-wheeler taxis must be painted blue and clearly labelled as bike taxis, including the name and contact number of the service provider.” Furthermore, these taxis must follow emission regulations.
Here are some positive aspects of the new bike taxi policy:
1. Distance and Fares for Two-Wheeler Taxi Service
– The maximum distance for a single trip is set to 15 kilometres.
– Two-wheeler taxi fares will be determined by the relevant Regional Transport Authority to ensure fair pricing.
2. App and Website Development:
Two-wheeler taxi aggregators must create a user-friendly app or website that meets safety requirements. This plaThe form will allow you to book and manage your two-wheeler taxi service.
3. BikePooling for Non-Motorised Two Wheelers:
There is great news for non-motorised two-wheeler drivers! Bike pooling is permitted up to four times per day within the city and twice per day outside.
The fare charged to the driver may be collected, but aggregators are not permitted to profit from the bike pooling service. Plus, all participating two-wheelers must be electric, the policy says
