The Karnataka High Court directed authorities to take action against auto drivers who assault Rapido bike taxis. This decision follows incidents of violence targeting Rapido drivers by auto-rickshaw operators. The court’s order aims to address safety concerns and ensure a conducive environment for bike taxi services in Karnataka. This move highlights the importance of protecting both drivers and passengers in the evolving transportation landscape.
Bengaluru: Bengaluru’s Rapido bike captains recently received relief as the Karnataka High Court instructed the state government to take action against autorickshaw drivers who harass and intimidate them.
The Bike Taxi Welfare Association filed a petition against specific autorickshaw unions and members, seeking protection from unlawful disruptions in bike taxi operations. Multiple incidents of harassment and physical harm against Rapido bike drivers raised concerns about their safety.
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Autorickshaw drivers argue that bike taxis are operating illegally in the city. The matter still under judicial review. They also claim that the bike taxis’ low-cost model “devastated” several autorickshaw drivers’ livelihoods. In fact, some autorickshaw drivers also book Rapido rides to warn the captains against using the app
The order issued by Justice Hemant Chandangoudar, a single-judge bench on March 28, mandates the state government to swiftly and decisively address any person or group unlawfully hindering bike taxis in their service operations.
The high court reiterated that it is the state’s responsibility to guarantee the safety of bike taxi operators. This directive aligns with a previous court order instructing the government not to take any coercive measures against the operators until the next hearing date.
The court also affirmed that it incumbent upon the government to acknowledge organizations’ responsibility to address complaints lodged by bike taxi operators, ensuring accountability and delivering justice.
This decision highlights the need for regulatory measures to protect drivers and passengers while maintaining a level playing field among different modes of transport. It also reflects the evolving dynamics and challenges faced by emerging transportation services in urban areas, emphasizing the importance of legal frameworks to address conflicts and ensure the smooth functioning of transportation networks.
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Rapido is a bike taxi service operating in several cities across India. It allows users to book rides on motorcycles, providing a quick and convenient transportation option for short to medium-distance trips within urban areas. The service accessed through a mobile app, where users can request rides, track their journey, and make payments digitally. Rapido offers an alternative to traditional taxi and ridesharing services, leveraging the efficiency and maneuverability of motorcycles to navigate through traffic and reach destinations faster. Riders typically appreciate the cost-effectiveness and speed of Rapido rides, making it a popular choice for commuters and travelers in congested urban environments.