Motorbike taxi drivers want the state government to consider letting them operate offline, just like regular taxis do.
Last week, in a shock decision, the Regional Transport Authority for East Khasi Hills banned bike taxis if certain conditions are not met. Two major bike taxi operators are active in the state – Rapido and Uber Moto.
Rapido drivers today met at Students’ Field, Jaiaw, and they appealed to the government to not have to be tied to online ride hailing apps. They also want dedicated bike taxi stands, such as are in place for regular black and yellow as well as tourist taxis.
The riders met with the District Transport Officer, D Lamin, who assured them of an answer after discussing the matter with the higher authorities.
To get government approval, Rapido rider Nehemaiah Mylliemngap, said the DTO told them that the riders need to have valid driving licences, PAN card, Aadhaar card and be tied to an app.
Almost all of these things are already required by the ride hailing apps before drivers can sign on.
When asked whether other riders support the idea of working offline, Mylliemngap informed that around 90 have supported the suggestion and it is hoped that others will come on board soon.
Meanwhile, sources said that Rapido has informed all its captains in Shillong about the government’s order and said that only online rides using the app can ferry passengers.
The company said offline is illegal and captains cannot ask customers to cancel booking and take them offline or charge extra and to not deny dropping them to their destination.
Rapido has also warned captains not to violate the laid down norms and if any, a complaint will be lodged with the government, sources added.
