Pune, India – The Maharashtra government has mandated that all app-based passenger transport aggregator companies operating within the state must complete their registration under the newly established aggregator policy by September 1, 2026. Failure to comply will result in strict legal action, including the potential suspension of operations, according to state Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik. This directive aims to address long-standing commuter complaints regarding overcharging and to enhance the safety and transparency of app-based ride services.
The Maharashtra Aggregator Policy, 2025, and the Maharashtra Motor Vehicle Aggregator Rules, 2026, were introduced to regulate platforms such as Ola, Uber, and Rapido. The policy mandates that aggregator companies obtain a licence from the State Transport Authority. A critical aspect of the new regulations is that drivers must receive at least 80% of the total fare collected, a measure intended to address driver earnings and potentially curb fare manipulation. The policy also introduces fare regulations, with base fares to be fixed by respective regional transport authorities and limits imposed on surge pricing.
Commuters in Pune have frequently expressed frustration over inflated fares, particularly during peak hours or adverse weather conditions, when drivers have been known to refuse app-generated fares and demand higher rates. Many passengers have also reported instances of verbal abuse and aggressive behaviour from drivers when questioning fare discrepancies or requesting basic services like air conditioning. The new policy seeks to bring accountability to aggregator companies by requiring them to implement real-time monitoring of vehicles, maintain a 24/7 customer support system, and ensure drivers possess government-issued badges and undergo mandatory training.
Beyond fare regulation, the policy emphasizes passenger safety. Aggregator companies are now responsible for ensuring adequate safety measures during every trip and must establish mechanisms to provide all mandated services. Vehicles operating under aggregator platforms must possess valid permits and commercial registrations. Private vehicles not registered for commercial use are prohibited from offering passenger transport services without a valid aggregator licence. Mandatory insurance coverage for both drivers and passengers is also a key requirement.
Despite the government’s assurances, some commuters remain skeptical about the enforcement of these new regulations. Concerns have been raised that while policies may be clearly defined on paper, their implementation on the ground has historically been lacking. The Pune Regional Transport Office (RTO) has been tasked with ensuring the effective implementation of these provisions across the state. Transport officials have urged all aggregator companies to complete the registration process and submit the required documents well in advance of the September 1 deadline to avoid any disruption to their operations.
The policy also caps the number of vehicles that can be registered on a single app platform. In major cities like Mumbai, Pune, Nashik, and Nagpur, an owner can register a maximum of 50 vehicles per app. For other parts of the state, this limit is 25 vehicles. This measure aims to prevent market monopolization and ensure a balanced distribution of services.
The Maharashtra government’s initiative to regulate app-based transport services reflects a broader effort to streamline the sector, protect the interests of compliant operators, drivers, and passengers, and ensure that technological advancements in transport are accompanied by robust legal and safety frameworks. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the September 1 deadline leads to widespread compliance and a tangible improvement in the commuter experience.
The Chenab Times News Desk