The Karnataka government has revoked the Electric Bike Taxi Scheme 2021, citing violations of the Motor Vehicle Act, concerns about “deteriorating law and order,” and safety issues for women.
The decision follows objections from auto-rickshaw unions. The transport department, in a notification, highlighted the illegal use of non-transport two-wheelers by certain app-based organizations and the resulting conflicts affecting law and order.
Ola, Uber, and Rapido offer bike-taxi services in the state, with Rapido being the market leader. However, Rapido clarified that the government’s notification does not impact its bike taxi operations in Karnataka, and it will continue serving customers without disruptions.
The government had earlier expressed intentions to address illegal bike taxis but awaits the resolution of ongoing cases involving Rapido in the Karnataka High Court.
