Bike Taxis Will Be Allowed In Karnataka Till June 15

The Karnataka High Court has extended the onset of ban on bike taxis in the state from May 15 to June 15. This in turn has given the state government and other bike aggregators some more time to come up with a comprehensive policy for the same. Since this policy is yet to be formed, the ongoing debate between traditional transport operators and technology enabled mobility services continues. 

The court extended the deadline based on a request by Rapido’s owner, Roppen Transportation service, along with Ola and Uber. All three service providers have already sent representatives to the state government to collaborate and come up with a policy so that its respective bike taxi services can operate in the state. 

(Also Read: Bike Taxis Banned In Karnataka, “Three Months To Frame New Rules,” Says High Court To Government)

However, to come to a definite conclusion is not an easy task. The main contention that auto union workers have raised with regards to bike taxis is the fact that they are doing commercial business using private number plates. This standoff has been ongoing for a long time in Karnataka. Despite the central government’s recommendations back in 2016 to promote bike-sharing for mobile connectivity, an expert committee set by the Karnataka Government opposed the bike taxi policy in 2019 citing congestion, safety, emissions and inefficiency concerns. 

(Also Read: Delhi to Impound Uber and Ola Bike Taxis for Violating Ban)

Rapido’s owner, Roppen, submitted an application to the high court citing how “This policy has the potential to enhance last-mile connectivity, reduce traffic congestion and support sustainable urban mobility. The government's proactive approach in this regard could position Karnataka as a leader in modernising transportation systems," reported Bar and Bench. Furthermore, it all cited how the previously set deadline would affect the livelihood of around six lakh bike taxi riders registered in the state. It was to this extent that the court ordered to extend the deadline.