Special Correspondent
Mumbai: In a major push for affordable and pollution-free transportation, the Maharashtra Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, has approved the launch of e-bike and e-taxi services in the state. Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik announced the decision, stating that Maharashtra will officially roll out these services soon.
The service will be especially beneficial for solo commuters and will significantly reduce travel costs. Initially, the operation will be limited to a 15-kilometre radius, and only companies with a fleet of 50 or more e-bikes will be eligible for a permit.
To ensure women’s safety, a special set of guidelines has been formulated. Covered e-bikes and e-taxis will be introduced to make travel safer during monsoons. All vehicles will be equipped with GPS tracking and safety alarm systems.
This decision is expected to help curb pollution and offer an affordable alternative to conventional transport, providing great relief to everyday commuters. In a noteworthy move, if children of autorickshaw drivers start an e-bike taxi service, the government will provide them a subsidy of Rs 10,000.
The initiative is also set to open new avenues for employment. An estimated 10,000 job opportunities will be created in Mumbai alone, while over 20,000 jobs will be generated across the state.
“E-bike taxis will be a new, eco-friendly mode of travel for Maharashtra. This step will not only revolutionize transportation but also boost employment,” said Pratap Sarnaik.
