Bengaluru’s transport landscape is witnessing a significant regulatory upheaval as the Karnataka Transport Department moves to curb unauthorized bike taxis, including those operating under the Electric Bike Taxi Scheme 2021, which has now been rescinded.
This development comes in response to protests by autorickshaw and cab drivers demanding action against bike taxis and uniform cab fares across the city. The directive issued by the Additional Commissioner for Transport (Enforcement-South) mandates all Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) in Bengaluru to form special investigation teams. These teams are tasked with conducting daily inspections beginning July 5 to clamp down on illegal bike taxis, both conventional and electric, until further notice. However, the Transport Department’s actions have sparked controversy due to conflicting legal directives. While the department moves to enforce the crackdown, the Karnataka High Court has previously intervened to protect bike taxi operators. In April 2024, the court instructed the state government to take stringent measures against individuals obstructing bike taxi services.
Responding to the directive, the President of the Bike Taxi Welfare Association, Karnataka, emphasized the legal protection afforded to bike taxi operations under the High Court’s orders. He clarified that any harassment or threats against bike taxi drivers would be met with contempt proceedings, reinforcing the legal standing of bike taxi operations in the city. The situation underscores the complexities in regulating emerging transport modes like bike taxis amidst broader demands for equitable transport policies. While authorities aim to streamline urban mobility and address grievances from traditional transport operators, legal clarity and adherence to court directives remain pivotal in ensuring a fair regulatory framework.
As Bengaluru navigates through these regulatory challenges, stakeholders, including transport unions and technology-driven platforms, continue to advocate for clarity and consistency in policies governing bike taxi services. The outcome of this regulatory tussle is poised to shape the future landscape of urban transport in Bengaluru, balancing innovation with regulatory compliance and legal protection.
