The Maharashtra transport department submitted a set of proposals to the state government that include barring app-based cab services from cancelling essential trips to airports, hospitals, schools, and colleges.
Confirming the development, a senior official with the state transport department said that the proposal has been submitted to the state government and is awaiting their final approval.
He said that the proposals are aimed at “ensuring reliability and safeguarding of commuters interest on app-based cab services.”
Under the proposed guidelines, once a cab is booked for critical destinations, such as catching an early morning flight or attending an important exam, cancellations will no longer be allowed.
An official involved in the policy development noted that many commuters issues like last-minute cancellations, and the new rule addresses those concerns.
Currently, passengers incur a Rs 50 fee for cancelling rides, while drivers often face no penalty for canceling short trips.
The new guidelines will introduce a reimbursement of Rs 50 to the commuter’s wallet if a driver cancels a ride without valid justification.
While app-based transport services currently operate under central regulations, Maharashtra’s initiative aims to tailor these rules for better service regulation.
Public feedback highlighted the common issue of drivers cancelling short rides, prompting the state to act.
Once implemented, Maharashtra will become the second state after Kerala to establish dedicated policies for these services.