Tag - MoRTH bike taxi approval

Key highlights MoRTH revises guidelines to allow private motorcycles to operate as bike taxis via aggregators. States can now authorize non-commercial two-wheelers for shared mobility and hyperlocal delivery. Move expected to reduce congestion, boost affordability, and create new livelihood opportunities. Private bikes can now legally operate as taxis—Subject to state approval In a landmark move, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has revised the Motor Vehicle Aggregator Guidelines 2025, officially permitting private motorcycles to function as bike taxis through ride-hailing platforms like Rapido, Uber, and Ola. This is the first time the Centre has explicitly urged states to allow non-transport motorcycles to be aggregated for passenger journeys, hyperlocal deliveries, and shared mobility services. What the guidelines say? Under the new framework: States may authorize private bikes for taxi operations on a daily, weekly, or fortnightly basis. Aggregators must pay a licensing fee and ensure driver compliance, including background checks and insurance. Drivers must undergo 40-hour induction training, covering traffic rules, app usage, and first responder protocols. The guidelines aim to create a light-touch regulatory system while ensuring user safety and driver welfare. Impact on urban mobility The move is expected to: Reduce traffic congestion and pollution Offer affordable last-mile connectivity in underserved areas Create new income streams for private bike owners Ride-hailing platforms have welcomed the decision, calling it a game-changer for shared mobility. However, implementation depends on state-level adoption, which remains discretionary3. Safety and tech requirements To ensure safety and transparency, aggregators must: Equip vehicles with GPS, panic buttons, and AIS 140-compliant tracking devices Maintain 24x7 control rooms and call centers Provide health insurance (INR 5 lakh) and term insurance (INR 10 lakh) for drivers Apps must also support regional languages, and aggregators must comply with data protection laws.