Bike taxis as an alternative to deal with Transport Problems

Bengaluru: The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has stated that State governments can issue taxi permits for all kinds of vehicles including two-wheelers; paving way for the bike taxi option which serves as an alternative to deal with transport problems for first and last mile connectivity and help commuters to reach their homes.

Bengaluru Central MP P.C Mohan raised a question to the Minister of Road Transport and Highways Mansukh L.Mandaviya in the Parliament recently, to which the minister said, ”State Governments are competent to frame regulations for enabling bike taxis. The Motor Vehicles Bill (2018) passed by the Lok Sabha proposes to strengthen public transport and shared mobility and has given more powers to states” Mohan wanted to know whether the Karnataka government had taken any measures to legalize bike taxis in the State.

Citizens are welcoming the idea of bike taxis on Bengaluru Roads. But transport experts are looking at the environmental impact caused by these bikes and asking the government to revise traffic rules to accommodate bike taxis.

Karnataka is yet to submit their action plan to control Air pollution to the Central Pollution Control Board. Recommendations include the introduction of electric vehicles, increase in BMTC and minimizing registration of new vehicles. Bike taxis will empower citizens and help reduce pressure on city roads, say bike taxi supporters.