Mixed reactions to lifting of bike taxi ban in Karnataka; ride-hailing firms welcome High Court order, private transport associations await clarity

Rapido, Uber welcomed High Court order, the Federation of Karnataka State Private Transport Associations raises questions over whether personal two-wheelers can be allowed as bike taxis until department devises a policy

Bengaluru: The High Court of Karnataka's lifting of the bike taxi ban has drawn mixed reactions, even as the detailed judgment has not yet been made public.

While ride-hailing firms Rapido and Uber welcomed the judgment, the Federation of Karnataka State Private Transport Associations raised questions over whether personal two-wheelers can be allowed as bike taxis until the Transport Department devises a policy.

A Rapido spokesperson termed the judgment "progressive".

"Recognising bike taxis as a legitimate mode of transport is not just a legal victory for us, but a milestone moment for urban mobility in Karnataka. It is a win for the people of Karnataka, who now have access to a safe, affordable, and efficient commuting option that complements the State’s mobility needs while creating meaningful livelihood opportunities for thousands of youth... As we move forward, we remain committed to complying with all applicable regulations and working closely with the government of Karnataka under its guidelines to strengthen the mobility ecosystem."

An Uber spokesperson said: "Bike taxis serve as a vital mobility lifeline for Indian cities, offering people an affordable and convenient way to navigate traffic. The decision will also bring relief to lakhs of drivers who depend on it for their livelihood. We look forward to engaging with the State government on operationalising this mobility ecosystem and serving the mobility needs of our cities across the spectrum."

Federation president S Nataraj Sharma said the court had directed the State to register motorcycles as transport vehicles and grant them contract carriage permits. However, it is not clear if personal motorcycles (with white boards) can operate as bike taxis in the interim, he noted.

He also highlighted safety and hygiene concerns over bike taxis.

"We'll have clarity once the full judgment becomes available, he added.

A M Yogeesh, Commissioner for Transport and Road Safety, declined to comment without going through the order first.

Karnataka banned bike taxis on June 16, 2025, in line with a single judge's order, which has now been lifted by a division bench. However, bike taxis are operational but ride operators cannot levy platform fees or other charges.

Though bike taxis are operational despite a ban ride operators were cannot levy platform fees or other charges.