Should Bike Taxis Be Banned? Part 1-Debate
Public policy matters are rarely black and white. Hence they pave the way for critical thinking and discussion. The teen writers were introduced to the issue of the recent bike taxi ban in Karnataka.
Bike taxis are a quick and affordable way to travel short distances, especially in busy cities. They work like regular taxis, but instead of a car, you ride on the back of a motorbike. Bike taxis started gaining popularity in India around 2015, when app-based companies like Rapido and Uber Moto began offering the service in cities like Gurgaon and Bengaluru. Since then, they have become a common sight in many urban areas, helping people beat traffic and save time.
Bike taxis have multiple advantages contributing to their popularity.
Affordable travel
Beats traffic
Faster commute especially for shorter distances. A KPMG study suggests that 70% of bike taxi users rely on them for last mile connectivity.
Eco- friendly
Flexible job option
Recently Banned in Karnataka
For a commute option that is widely used and is convenient especially for short commutes, the recent decision to ban bike taxis might seem misplaced. To understand the issue better, the teens were given a gist of what led to the ban thus giving them a peep in to regulatory issues and delays in implementing regulations.
The Karnataka High Court received an appeal from a citizen (a lawyer) asking for a ban on bike taxis stating that these taxis do not have proper regulations in place which includes insurance and safety measures. For example, there is no rule or clarity about use of helmets by the passengers and also women’s safety is in question. There is no regulation to ensure that the bike drivers are trained or safe. There are no emergency protocols in place.
Following the filing of this case the High Court passed an order to stop bike taxis unless the necessary regulations were in place. Since the state did not act, the court ruled that services must be officially ceased on June 16, 2025.
The ban has led to much inconvenience among commuters. The drivers of bike taxis are now relying on food deliveries more to make ends meet. But they complain that it isn’t enough. The commuters aren’t happy too. It is a strain on their pockets too as now they have to rely on autos which tend to fleece them too.
The state government however seems to have chosen the stance that the ban must stay. Widespread protests have begun as thousands of bike taxi riders have been left jobless and desperate.
Next week on the Young Writers’ Club
Issues from the real world as this one, gives us a chance to step back, collect information about the big picture and form our own opinions instead of being swayed by any one well expressed opinion on the matter. The teen writers were given time to research, choose their stance on the matter and prepare to defend their stance with sound arguments. The debate is scheduled for next week. Stay tuned for the actual debate.
Every week at the Young Writers’ Club (a writing club for teen writers), we catch up with interesting news, discuss, analyze and have invigorating discussions. This article is part of the weekly newsletter that is sent to the members of the club.
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