Bike Taxi Drivers in Maharashtra Face Major Hurdles in Vehicle Registration Amid Government Push for E-Bike Taxis
Bike taxi drivers across Maharashtra are encountering significant challenges in the vehicle registration process, despite the state government’s recent efforts to legalize and promote e-bike taxi services as a viable self-employment opportunity for unemployed youth.
After the official approval of minimum fares under the Maharashtra Bike Taxi Rules, 2025, many drivers eagerly resumed operations. However, they now find themselves mired in bureaucratic delays and inconsistent procedures at various Regional Transport Offices (RTOs).
### Confusion and Delays at RTOs
According to the Apna Bike Taxi Association, a large number of e-bike taxi operators are struggling to convert their personal two-wheelers into commercial vehicles. The problem begins with confusion among RTO officials.
Drivers report that staff at RTOs in areas such as Tardeo, Andheri, Thane, Vashi, Kalyan, and Borivali are unfamiliar with the new commercial registration rules. This has resulted in repeated application rejections and indefinite processing delays.
Frustrated, bike taxi drivers have submitted a formal appeal to the Maharashtra Transport Commissioner, urging immediate intervention. They argue the current system is not only inefficient but unfairly penalizes low-income individuals striving to comply with the law and earn a livelihood.
### Loan Restrictions and NOC Challenges
A major concern is that nearly 70% of these drivers purchased their bikes through personal loans, which typically prohibit commercial use. Consequently, banks are refusing to issue No Objection Certificates (NOCs), a mandatory document required to convert vehicle registrations to commercial status.
Without NOCs, drivers are caught in a difficult spot — unable to work legally and unable to repay their loans.
### Inconsistent Requirements and Additional Costs
Adding to the confusion is the lack of a standardized list of documents required by RTOs. While some offices demand the physical presence of applicants, others permit agents to file on their behalf.
This inconsistency not only causes further delays but also increases costs, placing additional burdens on economically vulnerable drivers.
### Regulations on Vehicle Appearance Spark Discontent
Further complicating matters are new rules mandating commercial bike taxis be painted in specific colors. Drivers contend that this cosmetic regulation is premature and should be deferred until the system is better organized.
They argue that enforcing such changes before resolving core issues reflects misplaced priorities.
### Key Demands From Drivers
In their appeal to the transport department, bike taxi drivers have made several demands, including:
– Creation of a simplified and uniform registration process
– Publication of a standardized list of required documents
– Issuance of a government circular compelling banks to issue NOCs for vehicles under loan agreements
– Official training for RTO staff to ensure consistent rule implementation across all offices
– Setting fixed timelines for vehicle registration and conversion
### Insurance Guidelines Remain Ambiguous
Another pressing concern is the lack of clear insurance guidelines for newly registered or converted commercial bike taxis. Drivers worry that operating without proper insurance, due to regulatory ambiguity, could lead to legal penalties or liability issues.
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https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/maharashtra-bike-taxi-drivers-struggle-with-rto-hurdles-despite-legalisation
