IAMAI urges Karnataka to draft bike taxi guidelines after HC ruling halts services

Following the Karnataka High Court’s directive to suspend bike taxi operations, the Internet and Mobile Association of India (IAMAI) has appealed to the state government to urgently draft regulatory guidelines to support the sector. The industry body also proposed the creation of a joint committee consisting of transport department officials, bike taxi unions, and industry representatives to help shape the regulatory framework.

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IAMAI’s request highlights the growing reliance on bike taxis as a key component of urban mobility, especially in traffic-heavy cities like Bengaluru. The association emphasized the services' role in offering affordable transportation for commuters and income opportunities for gig workers across the state.

The appeal comes in response to the court's April 2 order, which ruled that bike taxis cannot legally operate without proper guidelines under Section 93 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. The judgment has affected major aggregators like Rapido, Uber, and Ola, giving them six weeks to halt operations in Karnataka.

IAMAI also urged the government to consider issuing temporary permits to compliant service providers during the policy formulation phase. It called for a balanced framework that ensures safety, supports livelihoods, and keeps pace with urban transportation needs.

The association has sought an urgent meeting with the transport department to explore collaborative steps, hoping the government will act swiftly to adapt to evolving mobility trends and avoid disruption for gig workers and daily commuters alike.