Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has urged state governments to permit bike-taxi services, highlighting their potential to create new livelihood opportunities across India. He said private two-wheeler owners, including motorcycle and scooter users, can be allowed to transport passengers, particularly creating income opportunities in rural areas.
Gadkari pointed out that transport is a state subject and urged states that have not yet permitted such services to consider allowing them. The move comes under the broader framework that enables states to regulate the use of private motorcycles for passenger journeys.
The minister also announced a proposed negative point system for traffic violations. Under the planned changes to the Motor Vehicles Act, repeated traffic offences could result in the accumulation of negative points, potentially leading to suspension or cancellation of driving licences.
Gadkari made these remarks while launching the ‘Suraksha’ pilot programme, focused on free medical diagnosis and counselling for drivers, construction workers and other high-risk workers. The initial programme will cover a 150-km stretch between Nagpur and Kamptee on NH-44 and the mining belt of Chandrapur, targeting 10,000 people.
