Mumbai, Jul 31 (PTI) App-based passenger transport aggregator companies operating in Maharashtra must complete their registration under the new aggregator policy by September 1, failing which they will face legal action, Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik has said.
“Technology should certainly make life easier for citizens, but no one will be allowed to bypass the law and compromise the safety of passengers in the name of convenience,” Sarnaik said on Thursday.
The rapid expansion of app-based transport services, used by lakhs of passengers across Maharashtra, made it essential to ensure passenger safety, verify the legality of vehicles, establish drivers’ eligibility and fix the accountability of aggregator companies, he said.
Under the policy, all aggregator companies have to register with the transport department. Vehicles attached to aggregators must possess valid permits and registrations, while bikes, auto-rickshaws and cabs used for passenger transport must be registered as commercial vehicles. Private or other vehicles without a valid aggregator authorisation will not be permitted to provide commercial services.
The policy also makes it mandatory for vehicles operating under aggregators to have insurance coverage. Aggregator companies will have to ensure adequate in-journey safety measures for passengers and put in place mechanisms to provide services mandated under the policy, the minister said.
Aggregator companies should not wait until the deadline of September 1 to complete the registration process, he said. PTI ND KRK NR
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