Maharashtra Approves E-Bike Taxi Services with Specific Conditions
The Maharashtra state cabinet has given the green light to launch electric bike (e-bike) taxi services across urban areas, including Mumbai. This move aims to provide affordable, eco-friendly transportation for short-distance commutes while creating substantial employment opportunities. The policy is expected to generate around 20,000 jobs, with approximately 10,000 positions in Mumbai alone.
Maharashtra E-Bike Taxis
Only electric two-wheelers will be allowed to operate under the new policy, underscoring the government’s focus on promoting clean energy and reducing urban pollution. The scheme mandates that operators must maintain a fleet of at least 50 e-bikes. Each trip is restricted to a maximum of 15 kilometers, ensuring the service remains viable for short, high-demand routes within cities.
Bike Taxi Policy
Several conditions have been set to ensure safety and operational standards. All e-bike taxis must be fitted with GPS tracking systems for real-time monitoring. It will also be compulsory for pillion riders to wear helmets. The fare structure is expected to be affordable, with proposed rates around ₹3 per kilometer, making the service economically accessible to the public.
The policy has been designed to support single-passenger travel in densely populated urban regions, particularly during peak hours when traffic congestion is highest. The use of e-bikes not only allows faster mobility through narrow or congested roads but also helps reduce emissions compared to traditional petrol-based transport.
Mumbai Transport
The introduction of e-bike taxis in Mumbai and other Maharashtra cities is expected to enhance last-mile connectivity, especially in areas underserved by conventional public transport. It also aligns with broader efforts to modernize the state’s urban transport infrastructure while transitioning to greener mobility solutions.
Despite some resistance from traditional auto-rickshaw and taxi unions, the state government is pushing ahead with the plan, emphasizing the environmental benefits and added convenience for commuters. With strict operational rules in place, the initiative aims to balance innovation in urban transport with public safety and sustainable growth.
