The Maharashtra transport minister has launched a decisive campaign targeting unlicensed aggregator bus services—prominently including Uber Shuttle and Cityflo—as well as senior RTO officials accused of overlooking the operations. The move aims to enforce transport regulations while contemplating future policy frameworks for technology-driven bus services in Mumbai. Officials explain that over 450 aggregator buses currently operate across the Mumbai Metropolitan Region without formal state permits. During question time, the transport minister confirmed that while notices have been served, no decisive enforcement action has yet been taken.
He instructed the RTO to carry out raids, issue penalties, or suspend operations immediately rather than await responses from service providers. A key rationale behind the crackdown is to underscore regulatory integrity. The transport department will review whether aggregator buses could serve commuter interests under a formal policy. However, until licences are granted, illegal operations must cease, the minister emphasised. Sources indicate that Uber Shuttle services may pause operations imminently, with some speculating that the service could vanish from the app platform as early as Saturday. Cityflo representatives assert that they applied for a licence months ago and await state approval. “We have submitted required documents and remain eager to collaborate with the government to offer compliant bus services,” a Cityflo executive stated.
In other cities like Delhi and Kolkata, aggregator services operate legally with state partnerships. Delhi officials have noted that Uber Shuttle functions as a licensed, consumer-driven option integrated into public transport provisioning. Mumbai’s ongoing pilot project is reportedly aimed at gauging compatibility with existing transit infrastructure. Industry observers warn that withdrawal of aggregator buses may disrupt commuter options, especially for office-going individuals who rely on these services in areas underserved by air-conditioned public transport. Members of the Mumbai Bus Owners Association argue that targeting only Uber Shuttle is inequitable, noting that several operators plan temporary suspension of services on Friday in anticipation of enforcement action.
The minister has committed to join RTO teams on future enforcement rounds, including a recent operation targeting unauthorised bike taxis near the city’s transport secretariat. The initiative underscores renewed governmental resolve to regulate digital transport innovations.
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