Maharashtra draft rules to regulate app-based vehicle services

Maharashtra has issued draft rules for app-based vehicle aggregators to regulate fares, driver work hours, and passenger safety, inviting feedback from stakeholders until October 17.

The Maharashtra Motor Vehicle Aggregator Rules, 2025 cover motor cabs, luxury cabs, contract buses, camper vans, and e-rickshaws, but exclude motorcycles. Platforms like Ola, Uber, and e-rickshaw services will be governed under this framework.

Key provisions include: drivers cannot see a passenger’s destination before accepting a ride; apps must provide live tracking and accessibility features for differently-abled passengers. Surge pricing is capped at 1.5 times the base fare, and fares cannot drop below 25% of the base rate. Convenience fees are limited to 5% of the base fare, with total deductions under 10%.

Passenger safety is enhanced with mandatory travel insurance up to ₹5 lakh, while only vehicles under nine years old (cabs/autos) or eight years old (buses) are allowed. Apps must be available in Marathi, Hindi, and English.

Drivers can log in for a maximum of 12 hours daily, followed by a 10-hour rest, and must complete 30 hours of training. Low-rated drivers (below two stars) will undergo corrective training before resuming service.

Aggregators must pay licensing fees and maintain security deposits based on fleet size. The rules align with central guidelines and aim to improve passenger confidence, service quality, and driver welfare. State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik said the regulations will bring “greater discipline, transparency, and safety” to app-based transport.