After a two-month ban, bike taxi services by Uber, Ola, and Rapido have quietly resumed in Bengaluru from August 21, 2025, providing relief to commuters reliant on this affordable mode of transport.
Karnataka High Court’s Crucial Role in Resumption
The bike taxi ban came into effect on June 16, following a Karnataka High Court order that suspended services due to the absence of government-framed guidelines under the Motor Vehicles Act. This ban left many commuters struggling with higher auto-rickshaw fares and reduced mobility options.
However, on August 20, a division bench of the Karnataka High Court, led by Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice CM Joshi, strongly criticised the state government’s blanket prohibition on bike taxis. The court emphasised, “Give it a serious thought, there are lives at stake here,” and ruled that bike taxi services should be regulated rather than banned outright. Citing constitutional protection under Article 19(1)(g) and noting that bike taxis are legally recognised in 13 other states, the court asked Karnataka to draft rules regulating the service by September 22.
Current Scenario and What Lies Ahead
Although there is no formal government order allowing the resumption yet, all three platforms now show bike taxis available for bookings in Bengaluru. The state government, through the Advocate General, has assured it will take a “conscious decision” but has not yet begun framing new regulations.
Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy acknowledged the court’s directive and mentioned the government’s intention to discuss the policy framework soon. Meanwhile, commuters in Bangalore welcome the return of bike taxis, which have been a popular, cost-effective solution for city travel, especially amid rising auto-rickshaw fares.
Why Bike Taxis Matter in Bengaluru
Bike taxis have become a lifeline for many Bengaluru residents due to the city’s traffic congestion and growing demand for quick, affordable transport. Nearly six lakh bikes were estimated to be in operation before the ban, proving the service’s popularity among daily commuters.
The Karnataka High Court’s intervention reflects a crucial shift towards recognising the need to balance regulation with the practical mobility needs of citizens. The upcoming government rules could set a precedent for other states grappling with similar issues.
In summary, the return of bike taxis in Bengaluru is a welcome move that restores commuter choice and affordability, with the Karnataka High Court pushing for a more nuanced regulatory approach rather than an outright ban.