The Bombay High Court on Wednesday directed the State government to file an affidavit on how Ola and Uber cabs can ply on the streets with tourist permits.
A division Bench of Justice S.C. Dharmadhikari and Justice B.P. Colabawalla was hearing a petition filed by the Association of Radio Taxis, which states companies like Uber, Ola, Meru and Tabcabs are plying with tourist permits, and sought a direction from the court to stop their operations. The petition points out that cabs and taxis must have public service vehicle badges issued by the State transport authority after verifying the antecedents of the driver.
All such cabs and taxis are required to be fitted with a functioning electronic meter and to charge only the specified/regulated fare.
There is no check on the drivers of the vehicles operated by Ola and Uber. The petition urges the court to stop the use of websites and apps of these cabs as they violate sections under the Motor Vehicles Act.
The court said there is no system in place and this has led to an increase in the number of cabs on the roads. The court inquired about how surge charge can be taken by cabs and whether it can be allowed under transport laws.
The advocate appearing for the State said they are contemplating a new scheme to accommodate these cabs.
The court adjourned the matter till September 2.
