Daijiworld Media Network- Mumbai

Mumbai, Jun 3: In a significant move aimed at streamlining public mobility and empowering the youth, the Maharashtra government has finally lifted the nine-year-long stay on the rent-a-bike scheme. The decision, which comes after nearly a decade of policy freeze, is expected to benefit daily commuters, tourists, and aspiring entrepreneurs alike.

The scheme, originally based on a central government initiative from 1997, had been stayed since 2016 due to lack of regulation and alleged misuse. With the new green signal, the state has announced clear guidelines for operation—starting with mandatory licensing for bike rental operators. A nominal fee of Rs 1,000 per annum will be charged, and operators must own at least five bikes to qualify. However, they will only be permitted to function within their respective city or district limits, as clarified by transport department officials.

In the absence of formal rules, the scheme was being run illegally for years, often with alleged support from local transport officials. This led to inconsistent pricing, lack of consumer grievance redressal, and significant revenue losses to the state exchequer. By reviving the scheme with well-defined regulations, the government aims to create both a safer commuting environment and a legitimate avenue for youth to earn livelihoods.

Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik confirmed the lifting of the stay and stated that stringent action will be taken against any illegal bike rental operations. He emphasized the importance of such services in tourist-heavy areas like Konkan, where affordable and accessible transport remains a pressing issue.

The original ban was imposed in 2016, reportedly due to the unregulated expansion of the scheme and underlying political tensions. Officials also cited administrative loopholes, including the unauthorised issuance of licences at local levels without oversight from senior authorities.

With the policy now back on track, the state government aims to bring uniformity, accountability, and opportunity to a sector that has long operated in the shadows.