After a two-month ban, bike taxis are once again visible on Bengaluru’s streets, with both Uber and Rapido resuming operations. The comeback has been welcomed by commuters and drivers, although Ola has not yet restarted bike taxi services. This follows a Karnataka High Court intervention and ongoing legal-policymaking debates that could shape the city’s mobility future.
Why Were Bike Taxis Banned?
The legal tussle began in April 2025, when the Karnataka High Court responded to petitions and ruled—citing the Motor Vehicles Act—that bike taxi services from companies like Uber, Rapido, and Ola must stop due to regulatory and safety gaps. The court pointed out that there were no clear state rules for licensing two-wheelers as taxis, which made existing services technically illegal.
On June 16th, the state implemented this restriction, noting safety concerns, lack of policy, and congestion issues. The result was disruption for millions of daily commuters, sharp fare spikes for alternatives like autorickshaws, and loss of income for thousands of gig workers. Citizens and industry groups criticized the ban, highlighting dependence on affordable bike taxis for last-mile connectivity.
Recent High Court Action: Policy or Prohibition?
In August, after hearing appeals from ride-hailing companies and public frustration, the Karnataka High Court questioned the state’s blanket ban, calling it “legally untenable.” The bench stressed that bike taxis operate legally in at least 13 other states and are critical for affordable connectivity in fast-growing urban India. The court warned against unnecessary prohibition and asked whether denying the service aligned with government promises on last-mile transport.
The state has now been given a month—until September 22—to decide if it will create a policy framework to regulate bike taxis. Until then, the High Court directed no punitive action should be taken against operators or drivers, and the next hearing is awaited. The outcome could set important precedents for urban transport in India.
Rapido: Women-Only Bike Taxis and a New Bet on Food Delivery
Rapido, known for innovation in two-wheeler mobility, is launching a women-only bike taxi service, “Pink Rapido,” in Bengaluru and Karnataka by the end of 2025. Led by female drivers and aimed exclusively at women, this move is expected to create up to 25,000 job opportunities and offer a more comfortable, secure travel option for female passengers. Uber had previously introduced a similar “Uber Moto Women” feature in the city, reflecting a wider market focus on safe urban mobility for women.
Alongside rides, Rapido has launched its new food delivery vertical, “Ownly,” in major Bengaluru neighborhoods. The service aims to undercut Zomato and Swiggy by eliminating high restaurant commissions and focusing on a fixed per-order fee and hyperlocal delivery, using Rapido’s vast two-wheeler fleet for speed and scale.
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Uber’s Latest Moves in India
Uber is also doubling down on making mobility more accessible and useful for Indian commuters. Recent nationwide rollouts include:
- Price Lock, letting riders fix fares on busy routes.
- Simple Mode for Seniors, providing an easier app experience for older users.
- Uber Pet services for pet owners in major metros.
- Innovations like Airport Priority Access and Wait & Save, designed to suit the evolving needs of millions across India.
Most notably, Uber recently launched a zero commission model for cab drivers in India. This initiative allows drivers to keep 100% of their earnings without any commission fees charged by Uber, only a fixed amount of subscription fee is to be paid. a move aimed at increasing driver earnings and loyalty in a fiercely competitive market.
Uber says India remains one of its fastest-growing and most dynamic markets globally, with local solutions often exported to other countries.
What’s Next for Bike Taxis and Urban Mobility?
The next key milestone is the Karnataka government’s policy decision expected by September 22. As the High Court highlighted, the real need is for “regulation, not prohibition.” The outcome will impact not just ride-hailing giants, but also everyday commuters, gig workers, and the pace of innovation in urban transport.
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