The Cabinet has accepted the proposal for e-bike taxis in Maharashtra, said Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik on Tuesday, April 1. The distance restriction is now set at 15 kilometres, and the Cabinet stated that the enterprises will have at least 50 motorcycles. According to him, e-bikes that have a suitable barrier between the front and rear riders and a roof cover for rainy weather will be permitted to transport passengers. The minister stated that security and reasonable tariffs would be the top priorities. Children of autorickshaw and taxi drivers affiliated with government-certified corporations and boards can apply for e-bike taxis. They would be given aid of Rs 10,000, and they can raise the remaining funds through loans, he said.
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Over 10,000 employment opportunities will be created in the Mumbai Metropolitan Area and an additional 10,000 jobs will be created in the other parts of the state, he stated. "This action is meant to encourage e-vehicles in Maharashtra. Today, we approved the policy and discussed revenue models," he stated.
"The decision has been taken to enable people to travel more at less cost. A trip that used to cost Rs 100 now costs between Rs 30 and Rs 40," Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik told reporters following the meeting. The minister did clarify, though, that the e-bike taxi's operating prices have not yet been determined, and other modalities and the fare scheme are also up for discussion.
The transport minister said that only e-bikes will be permitted to operate in order to prevent pollution and environmental harm.
The cabinet now approves bike taxis, which have been authorised by the Maharashtra government under former Chief Minister Eknath Shinde in June 2024.