Maharashtra orders strict checks on app-based taxi and bike drivers

Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik has directed the Motor Vehicles Department to carry out strict checks on drivers linked to app-based passenger services such as Rapido, Ola and Uber. Officials have also been asked to begin legal action against drivers found breaking the rules.

The minister also told officials to register criminal cases wherever necessary, and to explore the possibility of bringing in an amended law to strengthen oversight of the sector.

The directions were given on Tuesday at a meeting with senior officials of the department. The meeting followed complaints against drivers working through app-based transport platforms.

Before the meeting, the Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) had taken action in Mumbai's Mahim area against a Rapido bike taxi driver. He is accused of spreading objectionable material through a social media account, and police are investigating the case. Initial investigation has not established any direct link between the man and any person or organisation in Pakistan.

Sarnaik asked officials to thoroughly verify the backgrounds of drivers associated with Rapido, Ola, Uber and similar app-based services. The checks will cover driving licences, required documents, permits and compliance with applicable rules.

The minister said those found breaking the rules must face strict action. Where an offence is made out under the law, criminal cases should also be registered.

He also stressed that action should not be limited to the aftermath of a single incident. The administration should keep regular watch on app-based passenger services and strengthen mechanisms to prevent wrongdoing in advance.

According to the transport minister, the growing reach of app-based passenger services has made effective regulation and enforcement more necessary than before. If existing laws and rules are not enough for the challenges these services pose, officials should seriously consider bringing an amended law, so that drivers come more effectively within the legal framework and the role of the State Transport Authority is strengthened.

Sarnaik said clearly that there would be no compromise on passenger safety, discipline in the transport system and compliance with the law. He asked the departments concerned to work in coordination, take complaints seriously and ensure that the guilty are dealt with according to law.

The directions show the state government's emphasis on driver verification and stronger monitoring of app-based transport services, which are becoming an increasingly popular way for passengers to travel.