Bike Taxi Riders Push Karnataka to Implement Central Guidelines

Fast Summary

• The Central government (through MoRTH Aggregator Guidelines 2025) has permitted ride-hailing platforms to include “non-transport motorcycles” under their services.
• These updated guidelines provide States with a framework to licence and regulate bike taxis,with a three-month window for adoption.
• Karnataka continues to enforce a ban on bike taxis despite the Central policy.
• The Bike Taxi Association (BTA) has urged the Karnataka government to adopt these guidelines, citing risks to riders’ livelihoods and benefits of affordable mobility for commuters.
• In an open letter addressed to multiple ministers and stakeholders,BTA stated bike taxis can be legally regulated under the Central law and emphasized how other States have done so successfully.

Indian Opinion Analysis
The decision by the Center highlights its intent to support flexible transport options like bike taxis,possibly expanding last-mile connectivity in urban areas. By licensing such services through clear legal frameworks, States gain opportunities for regulation that could benefit commuters while securing formal employment avenues for riders. However, Karnataka’s continued ban reflects divergent priorities within State policies toward shared mobility solutions-raising concerns about regional inconsistencies in adopting national-level reforms. Timely state-level action will likely determine whether riders’ livelihoods are preserved without creating undue regulatory hurdles or safety concerns for users.

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