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ETtech Explainer: How the ban on Karnataka's bike taxis affects gig workers, commuters

Economic Times

Economic Times · 22d ago

ETtech Explainer: How the ban on Karnataka's bike taxis affects gig workers, commuters

The Karnataka High Court upheld a ban on bike taxis, causing commuting issues in Bengaluru and affecting gig workers' livelihoods. Ride-sharing apps like Rapido, Uber, and Ola suspended bike-taxi services, prompting concerns as commuters seek alternatives. Some apps renamed services to bypass restrictions, but companies like Rapido are negotiating with the government. The ban impacts 50,000-60,000 gig workers, with potential shifts to parcel delivery services to mitigate impacts on jobs.

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Related News

Commuters left stranded as Karnataka bike taxi ban wipes out cheap and convenient travel options

YourStory

YourStory · 18d ago

Commuters left stranded as Karnataka bike taxi ban wipes out cheap and convenient travel options

The Karnataka government’s ban on bike taxis has caused commuting challenges and financial strain for many residents and gig workers in Bengaluru. The ban, starting June 16, was based on bike taxis being illegal under the Motor Vehicles Act. Despite protests and meetings with officials, the ban remains, leaving commuters with fewer economical transport options and gig workers facing income loss. Auto-rickshaw unions support the ban, citing economic competition concerns.

Bike taxi pilots seek Rahul, Siddaramaiah intervention ahead of ban from Monday

Economic Times

Economic Times · 23d ago

Bike taxi pilots seek Rahul, Siddaramaiah intervention ahead of ban from Monday

Bike taxi service providers in Karnataka have appealed to political leaders Rahul Gandhi and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to intervene in a ban on bike taxis in Bengaluru. The ban, set to take effect on Monday, follows a court ruling that such services cannot operate without a regulatory framework. The Namma Bike Taxi Association argues the ban affects over 100,000 gig workers relying on this income. They request regulations similar to autos and cabs instead of a complete ban.

People love them but do bike taxis have a future?

Livemint

Livemint · 18d ago

People love them but do bike taxis have a future?

Karnataka's recent ban on bike taxis, due to concerns about using privately registered vehicles for commercial purposes, has sparked a debate on their legality and safety. This move, reflecting varied stances among Indian states, could significantly impact low-cost urban mobility and disrupt gig economy jobs. The future of the bike taxi industry remains uncertain as these regulatory challenges persist, prompting questions about the broader implications for urban transportation solutions.

Ban-battered bike-taxi riders say struggling to make both ends meet - The Economic Times

Economic Times

Economic Times · 3d ago

Ban-battered bike-taxi riders say struggling to make both ends meet - The Economic Times

Karnataka's bike-taxi ban has significantly affected gig workers in Bengaluru, where around 150,000 riders experienced income declines of nearly 50%. Many have shifted to delivery services, saturating the market and reducing earnings for food and grocery delivery workers. While some riders explore alternatives like DriveU, many continue to struggle financially. The ban, implemented due to regulatory issues, has had widespread ripple effects, with workers urging for its revocation under regulated guidelines.

Bike taxi drivers allege harassment by auto unions over plan to protest ban; demand legal framework

Economic Times

Economic Times · 18d ago

Bike taxi drivers allege harassment by auto unions over plan to protest ban; demand legal framework

After the bike taxi ban in Karnataka, drivers from platforms like Ola, Uber, and Rapido reported harassment by auto unions and were denied protest permissions. The Namma Bike Taxi Association demands legal recognition and a clear policy framework, citing previous government contradictions with the Gig Worker Welfare Bill. The ban has led to economic hardships for drivers. Commuters also feel financial strain as auto fares have increased significantly, prompting calls to revoke the ban.

Ola, Uber drivers go on strike demanding better pay in Tamil Nadu

Economic Times

Economic Times · 1y ago

Ola, Uber drivers go on strike demanding better pay in Tamil Nadu

Cab drivers of ride-hailing platforms Ola and Uber went on strike in Tamil Nadu, demanding better pay and a ban on bike taxi services that they believe are cutting into their earnings. They are also asking for action against toll booths operating beyond their contract period. The strike, organized by two driver unions, seeks government intervention to regulate app-based cab aggregators and address high commission charges. The strike caused delays for commuters dependent on taxis and follows protests by Swiggy delivery workers in Mumbai over payout changes.

Bike taxis: Karnataka in no mood to relent on its stand, say sources

Economic Times

Economic Times · 2m ago

Bike taxis: Karnataka in no mood to relent on its stand, say sources

Karnataka is firm on its ban on bike taxis despite appeals from app-based aggregators like Rapido, Ola, and Uber. The transport department argues bike taxis evade taxes levied on autos and cabs, as they pay only lifetime tax. The High Court extended the deadline to cease bike taxi operations, while aggregators urge for regulatory rules and licenses. While some states like Delhi have adapted policies for electric bike taxis, Karnataka remains hesitant.

Gig workers will lose their livelihoods because of Delhi’s EV transition, cries IAMAI

Economic Times

Economic Times · 2y ago

Gig workers will lose their livelihoods because of Delhi’s EV transition, cries IAMAI

Raising concerns over a new scheme proposed by the Delhi government that mandates a transition to electric vehicles (EVs) for bike taxis and delivery service providers, the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) has said that an aggressive EV transition could impact the livelihoods of gig workers across Delhi who had invested in conventionally powered two-wheelers.

Transport Ministry introduces new clause for bike taxis amid Karnataka ban

YourStory

YourStory · 7d ago

Transport Ministry introduces new clause for bike taxis amid Karnataka ban

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has introduced new clauses to the Motor Vehicles Aggregator Guidelines 2020 to allow state governments to permit bike taxis using non-transport motorcycles. This comes amid the Karnataka ban on bike taxis, affecting aggregators like Rapido, Uber, and Ola. The ban has increased traffic congestion and fares. The new guidelines aim to enhance shared mobility, benefiting underserved areas, but don't lift the current ban. State adoption is essential for implementation.

Bike taxis are necessity, not luxury: Aggregators, bike owners argue at Karnataka HC - The Economic Times

Economic Times

Economic Times · 13d ago

Bike taxis are necessity, not luxury: Aggregators, bike owners argue at Karnataka HC - The Economic Times

In a hearing at the Karnataka High Court, ride-hailing platforms like Ola, Uber, and Rapido, alongside bike taxi owners, argued against a ban on bike taxis, emphasizing their necessity for urban mobility. They challenged a previous ruling that halted bike taxi operations pending government guidelines. Advocates contended that bike taxis reduce traffic congestion and support last-mile connectivity, asserting that denying permits undermines economic rights. The court will continue hearing the case on July 2.

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