Bike Taxi Ban in Karnataka: Ola and Uber Exit, Rapido Launches 'Bike Direct' to Stay Operational in Bangalore

The Karnataka High Court has clarified that the transport department can take action against bike taxi aggregators, not individual riders. This led Uber and Ola to remove their bike taxi services from their apps on Monday morning. Rapido, however, introduced 'Rapido Bike Direct,' a service connecting bike taxi captains with verified customers, allowing riders to continue earning without violating regulations.

Bike Taxi Services Suspended in Karnataka: Ola, Uber Not Available in Bengaluru?

Meanwhile, the transport department plans to file a contempt of court petition against Uber, Ola, and Rapido for allegedly ignoring the court's instructions. Transport commissioner Yogeesh AM stated that despite clear directions, these companies resumed bike-taxi services. He mentioned gathering sufficient evidence of violations and intends to seek legal action against the aggregators.

Rapido Still Operational in Bangalore

As per the TOI report, an industry insider noted that after the High Court's order, Uber and Ola promptly disabled their services. However, Rapido might still be operational by not charging fees or commissions from riders using their platform. It is reported that Rapido also approached the transport department for permission to allow bike riders on their platform without financial transactions as a temporary solution.

What is Rapido Bike Direct Service?

Rapido has introduced 'Rapido Bike Direct' in Karnataka, a service that connects bike taxi captains with verified customers without charging any commission. This initiative aims to support drivers by allowing them to earn without financial deductions. However, the state Transport Department plans to take action against Rapido for this move, as the legal status of bike taxi services remains unresolved.

Rapido describes its "Bike Direct" service on its app as a lead generation tool connecting bike-taxi captains directly with verified customers.

Meanwhile, Ola and Uber have exited Karnataka's bike taxi market, leaving Rapido as the sole major player trying to sustain this service. The new model aims to provide gig workers with steady income opportunities while offering passengers safe and affordable travel options.