Maharashtra Cabinet Approves E-Bike Taxi Policy For Urban Areas

The Maharashtra cabinet has approved a new policy allowing electric-bike taxis in urban areas across the state. This initiative aims to provide transportation for single passengers travelling up to 15 kilometres and will also help reduce pollution. State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik revealed after the weekly cabinet meeting led by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis that these e-bikes will feature a partition between the driver and passenger, along with a roof covering for protection during monsoon season.

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Sarnaik further clarified that while the policy has received cabinet approval, officials are still finalising the revenue model, which will be announced in the near future. He emphasised that safety and affordable fares will be prioritised in implementing this service. The program will offer financial assistance of ₹10,000 to children of autorickshaw and taxi drivers who are affiliated with government-certified corporations and boards who wish to operate e-bike taxis. Applicants can secure the remaining funds through loans.

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Sarnaik further stated how this initiative is expected to generate more than 10,000 jobs in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region. An additional 10,000 jobs will also be created throughout the rest of Maharashtra. He also added that the government is working to make travel more affordable, noting that "If a single passenger currently spends ₹100 for travel, we will work on reducing this to approximately ₹30-40."