Rejection of Aggregator Licenses Raises Alarm as Fines and Temporary Halts Disrupt Cab Operations
Pune News : Amidst growing uncertainty surrounding the operations of Ola and Uber cabs in Pune, concerns have been amplified following the rejection of pending applications for aggregator licenses by the Pune Regional Transport Office (RTO) earlier this month.
Social media platforms have become inundated with expressions of apprehension from drivers and passengers alike, as rumours circulated regarding hefty fines being imposed on Ola and Uber cabs by the RTO, reportedly amounting to around ₹17,000. The situation led to a temporary cessation of services, particularly in areas surrounding Pune airport.
Images depicting receipts of fines issued by over 50 RTO teams circulated widely on social media, exacerbating anxieties among drivers. However, it was clarified later that these penalties were enforced only on the initial day following the issuance of notices, after which they were halted.
According to an RTO official, Ola and Uber have until April 15 to file appeals. The review conducted on March 11 revealed that the documents submitted by both companies failed to meet the required norms outlined in the central government’s Motor Vehicles Aggregators’ Guidelines, 2020.
The official emphasized that permissions cannot be granted in principle, although temporary concessions are being made for the convenience of the public during ongoing board examinations. Regular inspections will be carried out, and necessary actions will be taken accordingly.
It has been confirmed that both companies were operating without legal authorization, necessitating the cessation of their operations. Further decisions will be made by senior authorities, with companies having a 30-day window to appeal to The State Transport Appellate Tribunal (SAT).
The uncertainty surrounding the future of Ola and Uber services in Pune underscores the challenges faced by ride-hailing companies in navigating regulatory frameworks and compliance standards in India’s dynamic transportation landscape.
