E-Bike Taxis Approved In Maharashtra: What Will The Fare Be And When Will It Start? Transport Minister Shares Details
E-Bike Taxi Policy Sparks Debate In Maharashtra: Experts From Pune Concerned, Auto Union Opposes
Mumbai: The Maharashtra State Cabinet has approved the proposal to permit e-bike taxis in the state. This decision was made during a cabinet meeting today, where the transport department presented the proposal. The meeting, chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, with Deputy Chief Ministers Ajit Pawar and Eknath Shinde present, concluded with the approval of e-bike taxis exclusively for passenger transportation, as confirmed by Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik.
Pratap Sarnaik provided information regarding the upcoming e-bike taxi initiative. “The transport department has proposed the e-bike taxi scheme for cabinet approval, and all ministers have agreed to allow bike taxis in Maharashtra. Previously, single passengers faced inconvenience as they had to pay triple fares for rickshaws or taxis. Now, e-bike taxis will resolve this issue for common passengers,” said Pratap Sarnaik.
“Approval has been given for e-bike taxis throughout Maharashtra, with a distance limit of 15 km. Organizations with at least 50 bikes will be permitted to offer passenger services. We have created a comprehensive set of rules ensuring women’s safety. E-bikes with full covers, which will prevent passengers from getting wet during the monsoon, will also be allowed. This policy to encourage e-bikes has been finalized by the state government,” Sarnaik added.
Passenger Fare Details
Regarding the passenger fare for these e-bike taxis, Sarnaik mentioned that a decision will be made soon. “We are in the final stages of deciding the fare structure. The approval for the policy has been received today. We are aiming to offer affordable transportation for passengers while providing employment opportunities at the lowest possible rates,” he stated.
“The government will create regulations regarding passenger fares. For example, if a rickshaw ride costs ₹100, the same trip will cost between ₹30 to ₹40 on an e-bike taxi. E-bike taxis are expected to start within the next one to two months,” Sarnaik informed.
Support for Rickshaw Drivers
“We are working on a plan to provide a ₹10,000 grant to rickshaw drivers who transition to e-bike taxis. This proposal has been discussed. If the child of a rickshaw driver takes up the e-bike taxi service, the government will provide a ₹10,000 grant, while the remaining amount can be taken as a loan. This initiative will allow individuals to acquire an e-bike taxi without having any initial funds,” Sarnaik added.
Employment Opportunities
“Sarnaik claimed that over 10,000 jobs will be created in the Mumbai metropolitan area alone, and approximately 20,000 jobs will be generated across Maharashtra due to this new e-bike taxi service.”
