Bengaluru: After a two-month break, bike-taxi services have returned to the city’s streets, bringing relief to daily commuters. The Karnataka High Court, on August 21, deemed the state government’s ban on bike-taxis “legally untenable,” paving the way for ride-hailing platforms like Uber and Rapido to resume operations. Ola, however, has yet to restart its service.
The High Court observed that the ban lacked legal merit and described it as “thin,” underscoring the right of bike-taxi operators to earn their livelihood. The court also urged the state to develop a clear regulatory framework for such services.
Until then, it directed that drivers should not be penalised for operating. The next hearing in the case has been scheduled for September 22, 2025, leaving stakeholders awaiting further clarity on long-term regulation.
The resumption of bike-taxis has been met with widespread approval from Bengaluru residents, especially those struggling with traffic congestion and high auto fares. On social media, users expressed gratitude and relief.
“My wallet can finally breathe,” one Reddit user wrote, celebrating the return of the affordable service. Another commuter posted: “Booked a Rapido bike after so long… felt so good to finally hop on one again instead of waiting forever for autos. Quick, cheap, and honestly the best way to dodge Bengaluru traffic.”
Another user recounted facing hostility from auto drivers while riding a Rapido: “Got confronted by three auto annas, but luckily my driver spoke fluent Kannada and managed to calm them down. They recognised us because of the Rapido icon on his phone.”
While commuters have welcomed the return, some auto drivers have shown resistance. With bike-taxis often seen as direct competition, reports of confrontations have surfaced, though no major incidents have been recorded so far.
Industry watchers note that continued friction is likely unless the government frames rules that balance the interests of bike-taxi operators and traditional auto drivers.
The High Court’s ruling has opened the door for ride-hailing companies to expand operations again in Bengaluru, where short-distance bike rides are particularly popular among office-goers and students.
However, uncertainty remains until a comprehensive policy is introduced. For now, commuters are enjoying the affordable and time-saving option, while drivers are back on the road without fear of fines or harassment.
The court’s intervention has restored a much-needed commuting choice in a traffic-choked city. But with the next hearing due in September, the future of bike-taxis will hinge on whether the Karnataka government introduces a clear and fair regulatory framework that supports both operators and traditional transport providers.