Thousands of bike taxi riders from across Karnataka are coming together to plead with the government to introduce a proper policy for bike taxis. In what they describe as a cry for help, urging for action to allow them to work and earn a living again. Over 5,000 riders from cities like Mysore, Mandya, Hassan, Davangere, Tumkur, Ramnagar, Shivamogga, and Kanakapura are riding to Bangalore’s Vidhan Soudha, asking the government to find a solution to the blanket ban on bike taxis. For them, this is not just about work—it’s about survival.
The ban has hit over 6 lakh bike taxi riders hard, leaving many with no way to earn a living. Families that once depended on daily rides for income are now struggling to put food on the table or pay school fees. Many riders say they feel hopeless, with no clear path forward. At the same time, commuters who relied on bike taxis for affordable and quick travel are also facing difficulties, stuck with higher fares and fewer options.
“Before the ban, I could earn enough to keep my family going. Now, there’s no money coming in, and every day feels like a battle just to survive. We’re skipping meals some days because we can’t afford groceries anymore, there is no money for my kid’s school fees either. How are we supposed to live like this?” – Ramesh, a bike taxi rider from Tumkur.
“I have two kids and a wife depending on me, and now I don’t know how to manage. The rent is overdue, the electricity bill is piling up, and I’m borrowing money just to keep things going. This ban hasn’t just taken away our jobs—it’s taken away our dignity.” – Ravi, a bike taxi rider from Mysore.
Bike taxi riders are requesting the government to bring in a proper policy that allows them to get back to work while addressing safety and regulation concerns. They point out that bike taxis are an important part of Karnataka’s transport system, providing jobs for thousands. Riders believe that with the right rules in place, bike taxis can continue to benefit everyone.
Riders have also highlighted that 19 other states across India already have policies in place for bike taxis, allowing them to operate safely and efficiently. They are questioning why Karnataka, one of the country’s leading states, cannot implement a similar framework. According to the riders, having a clear policy would ensure safety, regulate operations, and allow them to earn a dignified living again.
“This isn’t just about us making money,” said Priya, a rider from Mandya. “It’s about keeping our families alive. We need the government to listen and act before it’s too late.”
The riders hope their peaceful rally will push the government to take action quickly. Without bike taxis, they say they’ve lost not just their income but also their dignity and hope. They say they’re ready to follow any rules or guidelines, as long as they’re allowed to work again. For them, this is about more than just jobs—it’s about rebuilding their lives.
Key Points:
- Over 2,000 bike taxi riders from eight cities in Karnataka are riding to Vidhan Soudha to demand a solution to the bike taxi ban.
- The ban has left over 6 lakh riders without income, creating a severe livelihood crisis.
- Families are struggling to afford basic needs like food and school fees, with many riders feeling hopeless.
- Commuters are also suffering due to higher fares, worse traffic, and fewer transport options without bike taxis.
- Riders are asking the government to create a fair policy that allows them to work and provides affordable travel options for the public.
- 19 other states in India already have policies for bike taxis, and riders are urging Karnataka to adopt a similar framework to resolve the crisis.
