Ahmedabad RTO Suspends Rapido’s Operations Over Regulatory Violations
In a significant move that underscores the increasing scrutiny of private aggregators in the transportation sector, the Regional Transport Office (RTO) in Ahmedabad has announced a 30-day suspension of Rapido’s services. The suspension comes in response to multiple complaints from local rickshaw associations and allegations of non-compliance with regulatory norms, particularly those concerning the use of two-wheelers for commercial passenger transport.
Rapido, a popular app-based service offering two-wheeler rides, has been found in violation of the Aggregator Rules of 2020, which stipulate that two-wheelers ferrying passengers for commercial purposes must be registered with a yellow number plate and must also have compulsory insurance. The company’s failure to adhere to these rules has raised concerns regarding passenger safety and operational transparency. Despite receiving several notices from the RTO, Rapido failed to provide a satisfactory response or rectify its non-compliance, leading to the suspension of its services in Ahmedabad.
A senior RTO official, J J Patel, emphasised the severity of the issue, stating that the company had been granted an aggregator licence solely for three-wheeler auto rickshaws. However, Rapido had expanded its operations by using non-transport two-wheeled vehicles through its online platform. This violation of licensing agreements was further compounded by reports of expired vehicle documents, raising doubts about the safety and legitimacy of the service. “We cannot overlook the safety risks posed by the continued operation of unregistered vehicles,” Patel explained, adding that legal action would be taken if Rapido continued to defy the regulations.
The suspension is likely to have a substantial impact on Rapido’s operations in the city, particularly at a time when demand for affordable and quick transportation options has been growing. Auto unions have long been critical of services like Rapido, arguing that they undermine the livelihoods of traditional auto rickshaw drivers who comply with all regulations and licensing requirements. These unions had actively lobbied for stricter enforcement of rules, highlighting the need to level the playing field and ensure safety for passengers.
From a civic and sustainability perspective, the suspension highlights the critical need for a balanced approach to urban mobility. While private aggregators like Rapido provide a convenient and eco-friendly alternative to traditional transport, the lack of regulatory oversight can lead to safety hazards, environmental concerns, and unfair competition for conventional drivers. Sustainable urban transportation cannot be achieved without ensuring that all players adhere to established rules, prioritising the safety of passengers, and the livelihoods of traditional transport workers. Moving forward, it is crucial for both public and private entities to work together to craft policies that support both innovation in urban mobility and the protection of stakeholders involved.
In conclusion, Rapido’s suspension in Ahmedabad serves as a wake-up call for private transport aggregators across the country. While the business model of two-wheeler taxis may offer many advantages, the violation of regulations designed to ensure passenger safety cannot be ignored. It is now up to Rapido to take corrective actions, address the regulatory concerns, and restore its operations to avoid further legal repercussions. For consumers, it serves as a reminder of the importance of safety standards in the growing urban transportation ecosystem.
