Maharashtra’s E-Bike Taxi Policy Faces Delay Amid Opposition from Rickshaw Unions and Activists

Mumbai, 24th June 2025: The launch of electric bike taxi services in Maharashtra, initially expected by the end of May following cabinet approval in April, has been put on hold due to a large number of public objections and concerns, primarily from rickshaw unions and civic activists.

According to officials from the State Transport Department, more than 75 responses—predominantly objections—have been submitted against the draft policy. These concerns were forwarded along with departmental recommendations to the state government for further action.

Awaiting Government Notification
“Many unions and activist groups have opposed the bike taxi proposal. We’ve reviewed their inputs and sent them to the state government along with our remarks,” Transport Commissioner Vivek Bhimanwar said. “The final decision now lies with the government. Only once rules are officially notified can the rollout move forward.”

Under the proposed framework, only electric two-wheelers would be permitted for bike taxi operations, and only in cities with a population exceeding one lakh. This was a key feature of the cabinet’s approval granted earlier this year.

Unions Raise Red Flags
Auto-rickshaw unions remain firm in their opposition, claiming that introducing e-bike taxis could destabilize their livelihoods and worsen urban mobility.
“There are already around three lakh auto-rickshaws in Mumbai’s suburban areas—more than enough to meet commuter needs,” said Thampy Kurien, leader of the Mumbai Rickshawmen’s Union, who formally filed an objection.

Echoing this sentiment, a senior leader from a prominent taxi drivers’ association warned of increased risk on the roads: “Right now, kaali-peeli taxis have a near-zero accident rate. Bringing in bike taxis, which tend to speed and weave through traffic, could raise the chances of road mishaps.”

“Death Knell for Rickshaw Drivers”: Shashank Rao
Shashank Rao, president of the Mumbai Auto Rickshaw Men’s Union, expressed strong concerns about the impact on employment. “If bike taxis are allowed to operate, it could be the death knell for over 14 lakh drivers managing 9.5 lakh autos across Maharashtra. We’re already struggling with rising costs and declining ridership.”

Activists have also raised environmental and urban planning concerns, warning that the new policy might increase noise and air pollution and add to traffic congestion, especially if multiple aggregators are allowed to flood roads with private bikes.