Mumbai: E-Bike Taxis to Launch Soon, Fares Set at INR 40

The Maharashtra government has approved e-bike taxis in cities with a population of one lakh or more. The decision was made during a Cabinet meeting at Sahyadri Guest House. The Transport Department’s proposal was approved to regulate the new service.

As per the proposal, e-bike taxis will have a fixed fare of INR 40. This is much lower than the usual taxi or auto fare, which is around INR 100. The Regional Transport Authority will decide the final fare structure.

The government has also allowed private two-wheeler bike sharing to reduce congestion. 

• The government has outlined these conditions for the service:
• The Motor Vehicles Act of 1988 will apply to e-bike taxis. They must have insurance and a valid permit.
• Only electric bikes will be allowed under this scheme.
• Companies providing e-bike taxi services must have a fleet of at least 50 bikes.
• E-bike taxis can only operate within a 15-kilometre range.
• E-bike taxi drivers must be between 20 and 50 years old.
• Female passengers will have the option to share rides with other women.
• Safety measures include rider partitions and complete covers to protect passengers from rain.

The government is also introducing a subsidy for rickshaw drivers’ children. If they choose to operate an e-bike taxi, they will receive INR 10,000. The rest of the money can be taken as a loan. This will make sure that anyone can start an e-bike taxi business, even with limited funds.

The government expects the project to create 20,000 jobs across Maharashtra. Over 10,000 jobs will be in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. The policy is in line with the state’s push for eco-friendly transport.

As per reports, the Mumbai Automen's Union has opposed the initiative. They claim that the government will not have control over bike taxi aggregators, which may cause disorder. The union has promised to oppose the move.