Maharashtra Set to Roll Out 1 Lakh Bike Taxis and offer 60% cheaper fares in Mumbai
Maharashtra is gearing up to introduce an ambitious bike taxi initiative across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR), with the state set to deploy 1 lakh bike taxis, providing an affordable and environmentally friendly alternative to conventional auto-rickshaws and taxis. The new scheme, which is expected to gain cabinet approval later this month, will include both fuel-powered and electric two-wheelers, marking a transformative shift in urban transport.
One of the key features of this service is its pricing structure. Bike taxis are expected to charge fares that are approximately 60% lower than those of auto-rickshaws or taxis, providing significant savings for daily commuters. This will position bike taxis as an attractive option for short-distance travel, especially in congested areas of Mumbai, where traffic jams are a constant challenge. These services will be available exclusively through ride-hailing apps, ensuring a modern, tech-driven solution to everyday transportation needs. The central government had given the green light to bike taxis two years ago, leaving states to formulate their own regulatory framework. In Maharashtra, the initiative was championed by former Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, who directed the transport department to draft necessary rules in June last year. With the proposal now under review, approval is imminent.
The policy specifies important operational guidelines for app-based aggregators. Notably, these companies must operate a fleet of at least 50 bikes within a 15-kilometre radius. Additionally, 30% of the fleet must consist of electric bikes, with this proportion increasing annually until the entire fleet is electric within seven years. Registration fees for aggregators will range from Rs 1 lakh for fleets of 50 bikes to Rs 5 lakh for fleets of up to 10,000 bikes. In a significant move towards regulation, each bike taxi will be assigned a yellow number plate, ensuring compliance and helping to distinguish legitimate services from illegal operations. The state government is also working on a set of social security benefits aimed at attracting legitimate operators while curbing the growth of unregulated services.
The plan is likely to encourage food delivery and e-commerce aggregators to shift from using e-bicycles to commercially registered two-wheelers. At present, there is no regulatory framework for e-bicycles, and this policy will provide a much-needed solution for that sector. However, the scheme is facing opposition from auto-rickshaw and taxi unions, which express concerns about increased competition. Despite the pushback, Maharashtra’s move aligns with the ongoing trend in states like Assam, Gujarat, Delhi, and Karnataka, where bike taxis have already been successfully operational. The introduction of these 1 lakh bike taxis not only promises a significant reduction in travel costs but also aligns with the state’s goals of boosting the green economy and reducing traffic congestion. As urban mobility continues to evolve, Maharashtra is positioning itself as a leader in adopting innovative, sustainable transportation solutions.
