Bengaluru bike taxi riders demand central MoRTH rules to resume services
Bike taxi riders in Karnataka are intensifying their appeal to the state government, urging the immediate adoption of the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) Aggregator Guidelines 2025. This urgent plea, articulated through an open letter to key state ministers, highlights a critical juncture for thousands of riders whose livelihoods are in peril due to the current absence of a clear regulatory framework. The Bike Taxi Association (BTA) contends that aligning with central guidelines is essential not only for safeguarding the income and stability of these workers but also for ensuring continued affordable and eco-friendly last-mile connectivity in congested urban centres like Bengaluru, thereby fostering more equitable and sustainable cities.
The current regulatory void leaves bike taxi operations in a precarious legal position, a situation that the Bike Taxi Association views not merely as a legal oversight but as a significant socio-economic crisis. They argue that the recently revised MoRTH guidelines offer a clear, pre-existing legal pathway for the state government to regulate bike taxis without the need for cumbersome legislative amendments, drawing upon stipulations already present within the Motor Vehicles Act. This proactive stance by the riders underscores their desire for formalisation and legitimacy, which is crucial for the long-term sustainability of this growing segment of the gig economy.
The association’s fervent request is underpinned by three foundational pillars. Firstly, they seek legal clarity, emphasizing that the central guidelines provide a robust framework that should empower the state to effectively oversee bike taxi operations. This clarity is paramount for both riders and aggregators to operate without fear of arbitrary crackdowns. Secondly, the riders stress the severe risk to livelihoods, pointing out that bike taxis serve as a vital income source for thousands of families across the state. Prolonged delays in regulation directly jeopardise their financial stability, pushing many into economic distress, as evidenced by significant income drops reported by riders in the aftermath of regulatory uncertainty.
Lastly, the BTA highlights the undeniable commuter benefits offered by bike taxis. In densely populated urban areas, where traffic congestion is a perennial challenge, bike taxis provide an agile, affordable, and often faster alternative for last-mile connectivity. This accessibility is particularly crucial for daily commuters who rely on these services to bridge gaps between public transport hubs and their final destinations. For women commuters, in particular, bike taxis have often been perceived as a safer and more convenient option compared to other modes, thereby contributing to gender-equitable mobility.
A representative from the BTA underscored the frustration over the state government’s perceived inaction, stating, “The law already allows the state to regulate bike taxis, and other states have done it successfully. We’re not asking for special treatment — just a fair framework so we can work legally and support our families. Every delay puts riders’ livelihoods at risk.” This statement reflects a broader sentiment among gig workers seeking recognition and fair working conditions within the rapidly evolving urban economy. The appeal for a “fair framework” points to a desire for formalisation that includes clear guidelines for operations, safety, and driver welfare, which is vital for the long-term health of the sector.
The call for urgent government intervention by the BTA, articulated by its president, is rooted in the immediate economic impact on riders and the broader implications for urban mobility. The ban on bike taxis has led to a drastic reduction in incomes for many, forcing some to shift to already saturated delivery services, thereby creating a ripple effect across the gig economy. This situation highlights the critical need for policy makers to understand the intricate economic dependencies within informal and semi-formal sectors, and to legislate in a manner that protects livelihoods while ensuring public safety and regulatory compliance.
The ongoing legal battles, with the High Court verdict keenly awaited by the association, underscore the complexity of regulating new-age mobility solutions within existing legal frameworks. The Karnataka government’s previous stance, arguing that central guidelines do not permit the use of personal two-wheelers as transport vehicles without a legislative amendment, stands in contrast to the central government’s recent guidelines that explicitly allow states to permit aggregation of non-transport motorcycles for shared mobility. This divergence necessitates a decisive resolution to provide much-needed clarity for all stakeholders.
Beyond the immediate economic and social implications, the formalisation of bike taxis, particularly electric bike taxis, holds significant promise for contributing to zero-net-carbon and eco-friendly cities. Two-wheelers inherently have a smaller carbon footprint than cars, and the transition to electric variants can further reduce emissions and noise pollution in urban environments. By integrating these services into a regulated public transport ecosystem, cities can promote shared mobility, reduce traffic congestion, and enhance overall urban air quality, aligning with global sustainable development goals.
The situation in Karnataka serves as a crucial case study for other Indian states grappling with the emergence of new mobility models. It highlights the imperative for state governments to move beyond deferrals and embrace progressive policy-making that balances innovation, livelihood protection, commuter convenience, and environmental sustainability. A decisive, well-thought-out regulatory framework for bike taxis is not just about legalising a service; it’s about building resilient, inclusive, and future-ready urban transportation systems that cater to the evolving needs of a dynamic population.
