Bike taxis are set to transform urban transportation in Mumbai. Approved by the central government two years ago, this initiative aims to alleviate the city’s chronic traffic congestion while providing an affordable, quick commuting option. With fares starting at just Rs 3 per kilometre, bike taxis promise to change how Mumbaikars travel. Already operational in cities like Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Chennai, bike taxis are finally making their way into Maharashtra. This service enables commuters to hail a bike for quick and efficient travel, bypassing the traffic jams that hinder traditional modes of transport like cars and buses.

Bike taxis: Regulatory framework for streamlined operations

Pratap Sarnaik, Maharashtra’s transport minister, announced plans for a unified regulatory framework for ride-hailing services like Ola, Uber, and Rapido. The framework will streamline operations, ensure passenger safety, and establish mechanisms to address complaints. These measures will focus on licensing, carpooling, and addressing traffic violations, ensuring a safer and more organised transport system.

Bike taxi services in Mumbai: Challenges and controversies 

The introduction of bike taxis hasn’t been without resistance. Auto and taxi unions initially raised concerns about passenger safety, road regulations, and environmental impact. In 2022, the Pune Regional Transport Office denied authorisation to Rapido, leading to a legal challenge. Although the Bombay High Court dismissed the petition, it emphasised the importance of proper licensing and adherence to state regulations. The Maharashtra government is now finalising a draft transport policy to address these issues, prioritising safety, maintenance, and regulatory compliance.

Safety and female participation 

The proposed policy includes measures to enhance safety, such as mandatory helmet usage, proper vehicle maintenance, and specific provisions for female passengers. To encourage gender inclusivity, the government has suggested installing partitions for female riders, aiming to make the service safer and more accessible for women. This approach seeks to address the gender gap in transportation and empower more women to participate in the bike taxi sector.

Addressing union concerns of the city

Autorickshaw unions have demanded stricter regulations for bike taxis, including the use of yellow number plates, calibrated fare meters, and adherence to Motor Vehicle Rules. Union leader Thampy Kurien emphasised the importance of state-approved fare structures and transport document compliance. The government aims to balance innovation in transportation with fairness and safety for all stakeholders.

Transforming Mumbai's urban mobility 

As Mumbai prepares to launch bike taxis, the service promises to offer a faster, more economical, and more convenient commuting option. By reducing traffic congestion and aligning with global trends in urban transport, bike taxis could become a staple mode of transport in the city. If successful, this initiative could serve as a blueprint for introducing bike taxis in other metropolitan areas across India and beyond.