“We directed them to submit necessary documents; however they did not submit any of them, prompting us to take a decision to revoke their temporary licenses across Maharashtra,” said Pratap Sarnaik, a key official from the Maharashtra government.
On March 9, 2026, the Maharashtra government officially revoked the provisional bike taxi licenses for Uber, Ola, and Rapido. This decision came in response to significant regulatory violations, including the failure of these companies to submit required documentation and a series of complaints regarding the harassment of women riders. The revocation marks a critical moment for these ride-hailing services, which had only recently been granted provisional licenses under the Maharashtra E-Bike Taxi Rules, 2024.
The E-Bike Taxi Rules mandate that all operations must utilize 100% electric vehicles, aiming to promote sustainability in urban transportation. The provisional licenses, issued in September 2025, provided these companies with a 30-day window to secure final approval and meet specific regulatory conditions. However, the lack of compliance has led to this latest enforcement action by the state government.
“If they have not furnished the documents, their temporary licenses must be revoked,” Sarnaik added, emphasizing the government’s commitment to regulatory adherence. This incident is not the first of its kind; it represents the second time that bike taxi services have faced a ban in Maharashtra, following a previous prohibition in January 2023.
In an effort to regulate the burgeoning bike taxi sector, the Maharashtra government had introduced the E-Bike Taxi Rules 2024 to create employment opportunities for local youth while ensuring safety and accountability within the industry. The rules required operators to comply with a series of standards, including driver codes, vehicle requirements, fare transparency, and safety measures.
In addition to the revocation of licenses, the Maharashtra government has also suspended the issuance of new auto rickshaw permits across the state as of the same date. This move is part of a broader strategy to manage urban traffic and address the growing number of autorickshaws in cities. The transport department has already taken action against 130 bike taxis since April 2024, collecting fines exceeding Rs 33 lakh.
Despite the current suspension of licenses, Sarnaik noted, “It is only temporary. If they follow our norms and the terms and conditions of the permits, we will give the permits again.” This statement leaves the door open for Uber and its competitors to regain their operational status, contingent upon their compliance with the established regulations.
Looking ahead, the state government has indicated that it will consider lifting the ban if the companies can submit the necessary documents and assure strict adherence to the rules. As the situation develops, the future of bike taxi services in Maharashtra remains uncertain, with the potential for significant implications for both the companies involved and the riders who rely on these services.
