The Delhi government has announced a ban on bike taxis with immediate effect. The decision will affect cab aggregators such as Ola, Uber, and Rapido, which are popular in the city. In a notice, the Delhi transport department says that two-wheelers having non-transport (private) registration marks/numbers are being used to carry passengers. The government notice indicates that using personal vehicles as commercial taxis violates Motor Vehicle Act, 1988. The move will also affect many customers that rely on two-wheelers via Ola, Uber, and Rapido amid surging fares of cabs. Many also prefer this affordable mode of transport since bikes are more mobile in Delhi's traffic.
However, some apps are still offering bike taxi services. Cab aggregators are yet to offer a response as well. Here are five things we know so far.
--The notice by the Delhi transport department clearly states that the ban on bike taxis will come into effect immediately. The government notice points out that if service providers like Ola, Uber, and Rapido riders continue to provide bike taxi service in Delhi, then a fine of Rs 5,000 will be charged. If the offence is committed the second time or subsequently, then a fine of Rs 10,000 will be charged as well as imprisonment. If the offence is repeated, the driving license of the driver will also get suspended for a minimum period of three years.
