Bhubaneswar, Nov 13 (UDN): In a major development for app-based transport services in Odisha, the state authorities have reportedly directed Uber and Rapido to discontinue their bike taxi operations, citing alleged violations of the Motor Vehicles Act.
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According to the information shared in the notice, the Crime Branch has written to the nodal officers of Uber and Rapido, directing the companies to stop operating private two-wheelers for passenger transportation.
The action follows concerns over the use of privately registered motorcycles for commercial passenger services, which authorities have reportedly identified as a violation of the provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act.
15 days to discontinue bike taxi operations
The companies have reportedly been given 15 days from the receipt of the notice to discontinue the bike taxi services operating through their platforms.
Authorities have also warned that legal action may follow if the directions are not complied with within the stipulated period.
The move is expected to affect commuters who regularly depend on app-based motorcycle taxis for affordable and convenient transportation, particularly for short-distance journeys in urban areas.
Uber car and Rapido auto services to continue
Clarifying the scope of the proposed action, the directions reportedly apply specifically to bike taxi services involving privately owned two-wheelers.
Other services, including Uber cab bookings and Rapido auto-rickshaw services, will continue to operate as usual.
The development marks a significant regulatory move concerning app-based mobility services in Odisha and highlights the importance of ensuring that commercial passenger transport operations comply with existing vehicle registration and permit requirements.
Further developments are expected as the companies respond to the notice and take steps to comply with the authorities’ directions.
