Maharashtra Govt Suspends New Auto-Rickshaw And Taxi Permits From March 9 To Address Traffic Congestion
Maharashtra Govt Suspends New Auto-Rickshaw And Taxi Permits From March 9 To Address Traffic Congestion
Mumbai, March 9, 2026: The Government of Maharashtra has announced a temporary suspension on the issuance of new auto-rickshaw and taxi permits across the state from March 9, as part of measures aimed at controlling rising traffic congestion and urban pollution.
The decision was taken during a high-level meeting attended by senior transport officials, including Rajesh Narvekar, Transport Commissioner, along with Regional and Deputy Regional Transport Officers from across the state. Officials discussed strategies to regulate the growing number of passenger vehicles and to improve overall traffic management.
According to officials, the state currently has more than 1.4 million auto-rickshaw and taxi permits in operation. Authorities believe that limiting the issuance of new permits for the time being will help address increasing traffic congestion in major urban areas and contribute to efforts aimed at reducing pollution levels.
Under existing rules, the authority to decide on the issuance of auto-rickshaw and taxi permits in cities with a population of more than five lakh residents rests with the state government. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways of the India has also advised the state to take decisions based on local conditions and requirements.
Officials said the state’s Transport Minister had earlier corresponded with the central government regarding regulatory measures for permits. Subsequently, the Centre clarified through an official memorandum that state governments have the authority to regulate passenger and goods transport permits under Section 67(3) of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.
The provision empowers state governments to modify permit policies and introduce schemes to manage transportation systems more effectively. It also allows states to implement measures aimed at improving last-mile connectivity and reducing traffic congestion.
The Maharashtra government has indicated that it will soon take further policy decisions regarding the criteria for issuing new auto-rickshaw and taxi permits. These decisions will be finalised in an upcoming state cabinet meeting, after which a comprehensive policy framework will be implemented.
Authorities stated that the move is part of broader efforts to ensure better, safer and more efficient transportation facilities for citizens while maintaining balance in the number of passenger vehicles operating on the roads.
