Pune Authorities Crack Down on Ola and Uber Cabs Amidst Licensing Dispute

Pune, 16th March 2024: Online transportation companies such as Ola and Uber are currently under scrutiny for allegedly operating unauthorized services. The Regional Transport Office (RTO) has taken action against numerous cabs associated with these companies, resulting in significant inconvenience for passengers. However, there’s been criticism over targeting cab drivers instead of directly addressing the companies themselves.

The situation in Maharashtra is complicated by the absence of a specific motor vehicle aggregator policy. Both Ani Technologies (Ola) and Uber India Systems had applied for licenses from the RTO, but their applications were recently rejected by the Regional Transport Authority, led by Collector Dr. Suhas Diwase. Consequently, the services provided by these companies are now considered invalid. Ola and Uber have the option to appeal this decision within 30 days to the Maharashtra State Transport Appellate Tribunal. Despite this ongoing process, the RTO has already taken action against 40 cabs associated with these companies. It’s argued that any actions against Ola and Uber should be directed towards the companies themselves rather than the individual cab drivers, who are facing undue harassment. Moreover, the RTO’s actions are causing additional inconvenience to passengers.

Sanjeev Bhor, the in-charge RTO officer, stated, “The services offered by Ola and Uber are deemed illegal, hence action was initiated against the cabs associated with them. However, this action has been temporarily suspended due to its adverse effects on citizens.”

Dr Keshav Kshirsagar, president of Indian Gig Workers Front, emphasized, “Even though the license applications of Ola and Uber have been rejected, they still have a window of 30 days to contest the decision. If the RTO wishes to take action, it should be directed at the companies directly, without unnecessarily harassing cab drivers and inconveniencing passengers.”