Bengaluru: With the Karnataka High Court recently ordering bike taxi aggregators to cease operations within six weeks, regular users have expressed strong opposition, saying these services are among the most affordable and fastest transportation choices available, especially when compared to autos, Metro trains, and cabs.
The New Indian Express spoke with frequent users and mobility experts. While passengers supported introducing guidelines to regulate such services, mobility researcher Prof. Ashish Verma from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) suggested that a deeper examination and evaluation are necessary before enforcing any ban.
Balachandar, a tech professional, shared his experience of using bike taxis instead of BMTC buses. “I usually need to walk over ten minutes just to reach a bus stop or Metro station. Autos often reject trips if the pick-up point is in a narrow lane. But bike taxis are prompt, easily accessible, and more budget-friendly.”
He highlighted that these services typically cost around 30% less than auto-rickshaws. Moreover, in a city known for its never-ending traffic congestion, bikes maneuver through roads more quickly, making them a practical solution for time-bound travel.
Many users said the state government should not ban, but instead, establish a proper policy framework that protects consumers and supports riders’ livelihoods.
While Maharashtra recently allowed e-bike taxis and Tamil Nadu briefly banned and then lifted restrictions, the legal landscape across India remains inconsistent. Prof. Verma stressed the need to adapt transport laws with modern mobility trends, while also addressing safety concerns, especially for women riders.
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