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The Maharashtra government launched a major crackdown on private transport operators and app-based services accused of overcharging passengers and running unauthorised operations across the state. Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik warned that the state would not tolerate what he called the “economic exploitation” of commuters, especially during festivals, holidays and peak travel periods.
Special Committee To Examine Complaints
Chairing a high-level meeting at Mantralaya, Pratap Sarnaik directed officials to set up a special committee to examine complaints related to arbitrary fare hikes by private bus operators and the growing use of unauthorised booking applications.
The committee will include the Joint Transport Commissioner along with three
representatives from the Surajya Abhiyan organisation. It has been tasked with recommending long-term regulatory measures and submitting a detailed report to the government.
Officials said the panel will focus on issues such as unregulated pricing, lack of oversight on digital booking platforms and repeated complaints from passengers forced to pay inflated fares during emergencies and peak travel demand.
Action Against Illegal App-Based Services
The Transport Department has also intensified its action against illegal bike taxi operations in Maharashtra. Pratap Sarnaik has written to the Maharashtra Cyber Crime Department seeking immediate suspension of unauthorised bike taxi applications and registration of FIRs against operators involved.
The letter highlights concerns over passenger safety, absence of driver verification systems, inadequate insurance coverage and lack of emergency response mechanisms in such services.
Safety Concerns After Mumbai Incident
The move comes in the backdrop of a recent accident on the Mulund–Goregaon Link Road in Mumbai, where a woman died while travelling on an unauthorised bike taxi. The incident added urgency to enforcement efforts, along with multiple complaints registered at police stations across the state. Officials said illegal bike taxi operations are not only putting commuters at risk but are also impacting licensed auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers, who face unfair competition from unregulated services.
Commuter-Focused Reforms Announced
Alongside enforcement measures, the Transport Department has also announced passenger-friendly reforms. From June 1, toilets at all Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) bus depots across the state will be made free for passengers as part of efforts to improve basic facilities and commuter convenience.
