A plan to launch electric bike taxi services in cities having a population of one lakh or more has been authorized by the Maharashtra Cabinet.By offering an affordable last-mile connectivity option for short-distance trips up to 15 kilometers, this project seeks to improve urban mobility.
According to the report, after a Cabinet meeting at the Sahyadri guest home, which was presided over by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik made the announcement. Only electric bike taxis falling under the transport category are allowed by the regulation, and drivers must be between the ages of 20 and 50 to be eligible. It will be possible for female passengers to select a female driver.
It is anticipated that the plan will create about 20,000 jobs in urban areas, with the Mumbai Metropolitan Region accounting for about 10,000 of these jobs. The government is also developing legislation specifically for women’s safety and intends to launch e-bikes with roof covers and walls between the driver and pillion rider that are made to withstand monsoon conditions.
The state is thinking of offering a ₹10,000 subsidy to taxi and autorickshaw drivers who want to switch to electric bike taxis. Additionally, this program will allow children of government-certified taxi and rickshaw drivers to apply for financial aid.
In order to lessen traffic, the policy also allows for private two-wheeler bike sharing. The relevant Regional Transport Authorities will control the bike taxi fee structure.
A group headed by Ramnath Jha was entrusted with creating an aggregator structure for bike taxi services, and the policy is in line with their recommendations. The usage of yellow-painted electric motorcycles and adherence to rules including GPS installation, emergency communication systems, speed monitoring, insurance coverage, and background checks on drivers are mandatory for aggregators operating under this policy.
Click Here to get the latest EV news and exclusive updates from EV Mechanica on WhatsApp!