Delhi’s transport department has banned commercial bike taxi services in Delhi. Authorities have also issued notice to bike taxi operators. The use of two-wheelers for commercial purposes is a violation of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. It also makes aggregators liable for a fine of Rs 1 lakh.
The first offense will lead to a fine of Rs. 5000 and the second offense could incur a fine of Rs. 1000 and up to a year of imprisonment. It will also suspend the license of the driver for three months in some circumstances.
Authorities claim that there is no specific provision in the law for bike taxis and the safety of passengers is the prime reason behind the ban.
Bike Taxis are popular in several metro cities due to low charges and convenience. It also provides employment opportunities to many people. Official claims that they are not against employment opportunities, but they also have to consider such services from a safety viewpoint.
Earlier this month, Supreme Court refused to grant relief to Rapido after the Maharashtra government didn’t grant it a license. The amendments made to the Motor Vehicles Act in 2019 also made it clear that aggregators need a valid license to operate. This is also punishable with a fine of Rs. 1 lakh.
