The Maharashtra government has directed all app-based passenger transport aggregators, including Ola, Uber and Rapido, to complete their registration under the state's new regulatory framework by September 1, 2026. Companies that fail to comply or continue operating in violation of the rules after the deadline will face strict legal action.
Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik said the move is aimed at making app-based transport services safer, more transparent and accountable, while ensuring that all operators function within the legal framework.
Under the Maharashtra Aggregator Policy and the Maharashtra Motor Vehicle Aggregator Rules, 2026, every ride-hailing platform operating in the state must register with the Transport Department and obtain a licence issued by the State Transport Authority. The licence will remain valid for three years.
The government has instructed all aggregators to complete the registration process, submit the required documents and fulfil all regulatory requirements before the September 1 deadline.
The new rules require all vehicles operating through aggregator platforms to:
Private or unauthorised vehicles will not be allowed to provide passenger transport services through aggregator platforms. Authorities have warned that any commercial transport activity using private vehicles without the required permits or licences will be treated as illegal.
The government said the policy has been introduced to strengthen passenger safety, improve service standards and ensure greater accountability among ride-hailing companies.
Aggregator platforms will be responsible for implementing adequate safety measures for passengers during trips, while the Transport Department will establish the systems needed to enforce the new regulations effectively.
Emphasising the government's priorities, Sarnaik said technology-driven transport services should benefit commuters, but not at the cost of safety or legal compliance.
"Citizens should certainly benefit from technology-driven services. However, no one will be allowed to bypass the law in the name of convenience or compromise passenger safety," the minister said.
He added that the government is not opposed to app-based transport services but expects companies to operate strictly within the legal framework.
The Maharashtra Motor Vehicle Aggregator Rules, 2026, which recently came into force, introduce several new provisions to improve service quality and commuter safety. These include:
Transport Department officials said the new regulations are intended to bring greater discipline and accountability to Maharashtra's rapidly expanding app-based transport sector, which serves millions of commuters every day.
The government has made it clear that companies operating without the required registration or violating the prescribed norms after September 1 will face penal action. Enforcement will also extend to vehicles found operating illegally on aggregator platforms.
Officials have urged all aggregators to complete the registration process well before the deadline to avoid disruptions and ensure continued operations in the state.