E-Bike Taxis to Launch in the State; Fare Fixed at ₹15 for First 1.5 km

In Brief

• Path cleared for starting electric bike taxi in the state

• Rules implemented as per the notification issued in July

• Fare set at 15 rupees for the first 1.5 km

(E Bike Taxi) The path for electric bike taxi service in the nation has finally opened. The transport department has approved this service under the 'Maharashtra Bike Taxi Rules 2025', and companies like Uber, Rapido, and Ola have been given temporary permits for 30 days initially. This service will start in the Mumbai metropolitan area, with a fare of 15 rupees for the first 1.5 km and 10.27 rupees per km thereafter.

The state government had approved the launch of e-bike taxis in cities with a population of over 100,000 in the month of April. Now, the actual implementation has begun. According to the information provided by Transport Commissioner Vivek Bhimanwar, all three companies will have to fulfill all conditions and apply to the State Transport Authority for a permanent permit within the next 30 days. It will be mandatory to provide at least 50 electric bikes for this purpose.

According to the rules, only electric bikes will be allowed. Only passengers over the age of 12 will be permitted to travel. For the safety of women, a divider between the rider and the passenger is mandatory. Additional protective gear will be required during the monsoon. The maximum distance for each trip is set at 15 kilometers, and the service will only be available through the mobile app or website. The rules clearly state that passenger information must be kept confidential.

Some strict rules have also been set for drivers. A valid driving license, transport badge, and an age group of 20 to 50 years are mandatory. Working hours will be limited to 8 hours per day. Riders will be allowed a maximum of 4 rides within the city limits and 2 rides outside.