Strict action is on the way for illegal bike taxi operations in Maharashtra as the transport department steps up enforcement during the winter session of the state legislature. Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik warned that any violation of government guidelines by bike taxi operators will lead to criminal cases.
The minister said that seven police complaints related to illegal bike taxi services had already been registered in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region till Sunday. Stressing that enforcement will not be relaxed, he said, “If any guidelines are violated, or if anyone is forced to drive these bike taxis, we will take action. Wherever such violations are found, crimes will be registered against both the driver and the owner.” He also made it clear that pressure tactics will not be tolerated. “Nobody will be allowed to misuse the system. We are closely monitoring illegal app based services,” he added.
Turning to the issue of High Security Registration Plates, Sarnaik confirmed that December 31 will be the final deadline for vehicle owners to install the mandatory plates. He said this was the fourth and last extension, and only about 50 percent of vehicles have complied so far. “We want 100% HSRP implementation. But certain vested groups have been blocking progress. This will not be allowed. From January 1, there will be no more extensions,” he stated.
To speed up the process, the minister announced that from the new year, the government will allow any eligible state or national level automobile companies to issue HSRP plates. “This is a public safety matter. Every company fulfilling the criteria will be allowed to supply HSRP. Citizens must complete the process by December 31,” he said.
The strong warning comes at a time when both the regulation of bike taxis and delays in HSRP installation are becoming major public issues. These matters are expected to remain at the centre of discussions throughout the winter session.
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