Pune: Transport Authorities Set June 18 Deadline for Ola and Uber Licensing Dispute Resolution
Pune, 23rd April 2024: The Regional Transport Authority (RTA) in Pune has thrown down the gauntlet to online passenger transport giants Ola and Uber, challenging their licensing operations in the region. The latest developments emerged during a hearing convened before the State Transport Appellate Tribunal on Monday, setting the stage for a legal showdown between the transportation behemoths and regulatory bodies.
Both Ola and Uber, along with the Regional Transport Office (RTO), presented their respective arguments and submissions to the arbitrator during the hearing, with the proceedings scheduled for final deliberation on June 18. The crux of the matter revolves around the absence of a comprehensive motor vehicle aggregator policy enacted by the Maharashtra state government, prompting ANI Technologies (Ola) and Uber India Systems to seek licensing under the Central Government’s Motor Vehicle Aggregator Policy.
The licensing applications submitted by Ola and Uber were tabled before the Regional Transport Authority on March 11 for review, subsequently facing rejection during a meeting chaired by District Collector Dr Suhas Diwase. This decision prompted both companies to exercise their right to challenge the ruling within a stipulated timeframe, leading to hearings before the State Transport Appellate Tribunal.
At the heart of the dispute lies the failure of Ola and Uber to comply with fare regulations set forth by the regional transport authority, which recently mandated an increase in fares for air-conditioned taxis. Despite multiple meetings and discussions to resolve the impasse, a consensus has remained elusive, culminating in the rejection of their license applications by the district collector.
In response, Ola and Uber have mounted a legal defense before the tribunal, contending that punitive action should not be taken against them in the absence of a clear state-level vehicle aggregation policy. The RTO, in turn, has presented its stance on the matter, underscoring the need for regulatory compliance in the interest of public safety and fair competition.
As the proceedings unfold, the arbitrator has directed the RTO to provide clarification regarding Uber’s tardy application, underscoring the complexity and gravity of the ongoing legal dispute.
Stay tuned for further updates as the case progresses towards its final resolution on June 18.
