27 October,2026 10:22 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Sarnaik directed officials to thoroughly verify the backgrounds of drivers associated with Rapido, Ola, Uber and other app-based transport services. (Pic via special arrangement)
Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik has directed the Motor Transport Department to conduct strict checks on drivers working with app-based passenger transport services such as Rapido, Ola and Uber, and initiate legal action against those found violating regulations.
He has also instructed officials to register criminal cases wherever necessary and explore the possibility of introducing a revised law to strengthen oversight of the sector.
The directions were issued during a meeting with senior department officials on Tuesday, amid complaints against drivers operating through app-based transport platforms.
The meeting followed an Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) action against a Rapido bike taxi driver in Mumbai's Mahim area. The individual has been accused of circulating objectionable content through social media accounts, and the police are investigating the matter. Reports indicate that the preliminary investigation did not establish direct links between the individual and any person or organisation in Pakistan.
Sarnaik directed officials to thoroughly verify the backgrounds of drivers associated with Rapido, Ola, Uber and other app-based transport services. The checks will cover driving licences, mandatory documents, permits and compliance with applicable regulations.
The minister said strict action must be taken against those found violating rules, with criminal cases registered wherever offences warrant such action under the law.
He also stressed that enforcement should not be limited to responding to individual incidents. Instead, authorities should maintain regular oversight of app-based passenger transport services and strengthen mechanisms to prevent potential misconduct.
The transport minister said the expansion of app-based passenger transport services has made effective regulation and enforcement increasingly important.
If existing laws and regulations do not adequately address the challenges posed by these services, officials should seriously consider introducing a revised law to bring drivers more effectively within the legal framework and strengthen the role of the state transport authority.
Sarnaik emphasised that passenger safety, discipline in the transport system and compliance with the law would not be compromised.
He instructed the concerned authorities to coordinate their efforts, take complaints seriously and ensure that those found guilty face action in accordance with the law.
The directions underscore the state government's focus on strengthening driver verification and regulatory oversight of app-based transport services, which have become an increasingly popular travel option for commuters.
