Ola's share cab service illegal, says Transport dept

The Transport department has termed the ‘share’ cabs operated by the taxi aggregator Ola illegal as it amounts to operating as a stage carrier.

Commissioner for Transport and Road Safety Ramegowda termed the ‘share’ service of Ola  illegal as vehicles operating on contract carriage permits are not permitted to run shuttle-service in the city.

The city falls under the BTS Area Scheme (nationalisation of area). As per the scheme, no private operators are allowed to carry passengers from one stage to another stage which is also called the ‘shuttle service.’ Engaging in the shuttle-service is the exclusive right of the Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) in the city.

Ramegowda said the department will initiate action against Ola for violating norms. “They (Ola) are using the share concept for commercial purpose which is a clear violation of the existing rules.” he added.

According to BTS Area Scheme, no private operators are allowed to offer stage carriage service within the 50-km radius of the city. Their operation should end on the city outskirts.

This rule also applies to Ola, said a BMTC official. He added that bus service in the city has to be provided only by the BMTC.

Women complain

Some women commuters have raised questions about their safety in ‘share’ service of Ola as men are allowed to share the cab with them. Raksha, who is a regular user of Ola cabs had booked a ride recently under ‘share’ at 11 pm.

She had to curtail her journey in the middle and take an auto to reach home. She chose to get down as male passengers were allowed enroute in the cab she was travelling. Moreover, a passenger was drunk. She had also lodged a complaint in this regard with Ola.