The central government is looking at a new way to create jobs and make daily travel easier across the country.
Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari has said that private two-wheeler owners may be allowed to operate their vehicles as bike taxis.
Gadkari has urged state governments to permit bike taxi services in their respective states.
However, the final decision will remain with each state because transport is a state subject.
Bike Taxis Could Become a New Source of Income
According to Gadkari, allowing private two-wheelers to carry passengers as bike taxis could provide an additional source of income to millions of people.
The move could be especially useful in rural and other areas where employment opportunities are limited.
He said private two-wheeler owners have been permitted to carry passengers through bike taxi services, but some states are still not allowing them to operate.
Gadkari has asked these states to consider moving forward with the service. However, rules related to permits, insurance and other requirements will depend on individual state governments.
This means bike taxis will not automatically become legal in every state immediately.
Up to 8 Crore People Could Benefit
Gadkari claimed that wider adoption of bike taxi services could create livelihood opportunities for around 8 crore people.
For many two-wheeler owners, this could provide an opportunity to earn extra income by offering rides to passengers. At the same time, commuters could get another option for short-distance travel.
The actual rollout, however, will depend on approvals and regulations introduced by individual states.
New Penalty System for Traffic Violations
Gadkari also shared an important update about road safety. The government is preparing changes to the Motor Vehicles Act to take stricter action against people who repeatedly violate traffic rules.
One proposal involves introducing a negative-point system for drivers. Under such a system, drivers could receive negative points for traffic violations.
If a driver collects too many points, their driving licence could eventually be suspended or cancelled.
Free Health Checkups for Drivers
The government has also launched a pilot programme called “Suraksha” to focus on the health and safety of drivers and workers.
Under the programme, drivers, construction workers and other vulnerable workers associated with highway and mining projects will receive free medical checkups and counselling.
The pilot will initially cover a 150-km stretch of the Nagpur-Kampti section of NH-44 and the Chandrapur mining area in Maharashtra. The programme aims to reach around 10,000 people.
Gadkari also highlighted the importance of drivers undergoing regular health checks, particularly eye examinations, as good health and vision play an important role in road safety.
