Nagpur RTO Intensifies Crackdown on Unauthorized Bike Taxis
The Regional Transport Office (RTO) in Nagpur has initiated a rigorous enforcement drive targeting illegal bike taxi operations within the city. Over the past two days, authorities have taken decisive action against 20 individuals involved in this unlawful activity.
Substantial Penalties and Registration Suspensions
Each of the 20 offenders has been slapped with a hefty fine of Rs 10,000. In addition to the financial penalty, the RTO has cancelled the vehicle registrations of these bikes for a period of three months. This dual punishment underscores the seriousness with which the transport department is addressing violations of the state's regulatory framework.
Background: Maharashtra's Aggregator Policy and Bike Taxi Rules
The crackdown is grounded in a government decision by the state home department, which issued an aggregator policy and established specific rules for bike taxi services. On July 4 of last year, the department circulated a circular to implement the Maharashtra Bike Taxi Rules. These regulations mandate that companies offering two-wheeler and four-wheeler passenger services via mobile applications must secure an 'operator licence' from the transport department. To date, no such licences have been issued in Nagpur, making all current bike taxi operations in the city illegal.
Enforcement Actions Under the Motor Vehicle Act
Despite the clear regulatory requirements, it was discovered that several cab aggregators were continuing to operate bike taxis without the necessary approvals. In response, the RTO launched targeted enforcement actions under the provisions of the Motor Vehicle Act. On Monday, officials took action against 11 bike taxi drivers, followed by another 9 on Tuesday. This swift and coordinated effort aims to curb the proliferation of unlicensed transport services and ensure compliance with state laws.
The campaign highlights the RTO's commitment to maintaining order in the city's transport sector and protecting the interests of legitimate operators. Authorities have warned that similar actions will continue against any entities flouting the established rules, emphasizing the importance of adhering to legal standards for passenger safety and service quality.
