Introduction
Good news for commuters and gig workers in Bengaluru—bike taxi services like Uber and Rapido are back on the city’s roads. After being banned for more than two months, riders have started taking bookings again. But here’s the twist: the return is not because of a clear government approval. Instead, it comes after a Karnataka High Court observation that the state government cannot completely ban such services.
So, what exactly happened? Why were bike taxis stopped in the first place? And what’s the future of this service in Karnataka? Let’s understand everything in detail.
Table of Contents
Why Bike Taxis Were Banned in June
Back in June 2025, the Karnataka government ordered Uber, Rapido, and Ola to stop offering bike taxi services in the state. The transport department argued that using personal two-wheelers for commercial rides was against existing laws.
As a result, from June 16, the bike option was removed from apps. Thousands of riders lost their daily income, and passengers who depended on cheap, quick rides had to shift back to autos and cabs.
The ban created huge controversy, as bike taxis were already allowed in more than 10 other states in India.
The High Court Steps In
Soon after the ban, bike taxi companies and worker groups approached the Karnataka High Court.
A division bench headed by Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice C. M. Joshi made an important observation:
- The government can regulate bike taxis but cannot completely prohibit them.
- Bike taxis are a legitimate means of transport and are already operating in other states.
- Denying them in Karnataka violates the right to livelihood of thousands of gig workers.
- The court also compared them with auto-rickshaws, saying if autos are allowed, bike taxis cannot be banned without proper reasoning.
The court gave the state government one month to frame a clear policy, setting September 22 as the next hearing date.
Bike Taxis Resume—But in a Grey Zone
On August 21, 2025, after two months of silence, Uber, Rapido, and Ola switched on the bike taxi feature again in their apps. Commuters started booking rides immediately, and Bengaluru roads once again saw riders with helmets and backpacks ferrying passengers.
However, Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy clarified that the High Court has not given direct permission to restart. He said the government is still reviewing the matter and a final policy will be announced soon.
This means that bike taxis are currently running in a legal grey area. They are not officially approved, but companies are operating because of the court’s strong stand against a complete ban.
Why Bike Taxis Matter in Bengaluru
Bengaluru is known for its traffic jams and high travel costs. In such a city, bike taxis solve many problems:
- Affordable Travel – A bike ride costs much less than an auto or cab.
- Time-Saving – Bikes can easily cut through traffic, making them faster.
- Last-Mile Connectivity – Perfect for short trips to metro stations or offices.
- Livelihood for Riders – Thousands of delivery partners also depend on bike taxis for extra income.
The High Court also mentioned that bike taxis are not a luxury but a need for modern urban transport.
Challenges Ahead
While the return of bike taxis is a relief, several challenges remain:
- Safety Concerns – Passengers and riders must follow helmet rules and traffic safety.
- Regulations – The government needs to decide whether personal two-wheelers can be used or only commercial-registered bikes.
- Fair Competition – Auto unions have protested bike taxis, saying they eat into their income.
- Insurance and Liability – Clear rules are required to protect both riders and passengers in case of accidents.
The upcoming September 22 hearing will be crucial, as the government is expected to submit a framework for regulation.
READ ALSO : Did Sudeep Really Purchase Half Acre for Vishnuvardhan Darshan Centre? Here’s the Answer
What’s Next for Commuters and Riders
👉 If you’re a commuter – Bike taxis are currently available, but availability may change depending on the government’s next order.
👉 If you’re a rider/driver – You can take bookings now, but stay updated on the new policy that may bring changes to registration or licensing.
👉 For the government – The challenge is to balance safety, regulation, and livelihood while embracing new-age mobility solutions.
Are bike taxis legal in Bengaluru right now?
Not fully. Companies like Uber and Rapido have resumed services, but the government has not given formal approval.
Why did the government ban bike taxis earlier?
The ban was due to a lack of proper rules for using personal bikes as taxis.
What did the High Court say?
The Karnataka High Court said the state cannot completely ban bike taxis. It asked the government to bring regulations instead.
Conclusion
The fight over bike taxis in Karnataka is not just about apps and vehicles—it’s about the future of urban mobility. The High Court has sided with innovation and livelihoods, but the final word lies in the government’s upcoming policy.
For now, Bengaluru residents can once again enjoy the convenience of quick and affordable bike rides. But all eyes are on September 22, when the next chapter of this debate will unfold.
