By Kavita Mistry 
On May 1, 2025, the Maharashtra government unveiled the Aggregator Cabs Policy 2025, targeting major platforms like Ola, Uber, and Rapido. This long-awaited policy, shaped by Supreme Court directives and a committee headed by retired IAS officer Sudhir Kumar Srivastava, introduces comprehensive reforms to enhance passenger safety, driver accountability, and fare transparency.
Why This Policy Was Needed
The app-cab sector has seen a surge in passenger complaints over issues like arbitrary cancellations, high surge pricing, and safety lapses, especially impacting women. Until now, these platforms operated in a regulatory grey zone. This policy addresses that gap with concrete rules for licensing, operations, and conduct.
Key Reforms for Passengers
Several passenger-first measures are at the core of the policy:
- Real-time GPS tracking and emergency buttons are now mandatory.
- Police verification for all drivers is compulsory.
- Women passengers can opt for female drivers and co-passengers.
- Surge fares capped at 1.5x the base fare.
- Driver cancellations or refusals will be penalized, with compensation credited to passengers.
- Poor-condition vehicles will be removed from service.
Empowering Drivers, Regulating Aggregators
The policy also safeguards driver rights and welfare:
- Drivers must receive at least 80% of the fare from each ride.
- Access to training, insurance, and welfare benefits is mandated.
- Drivers with low ratings will face refresher training.
Aggregator companies will now be required to:
- Set up physical offices in Maharashtra.
- Install GPS in all cabs.
- Provide insurance to drivers and passengers.
- Ensure document verification and data security compliance under the IT Act, 2000.
What’s Next?
The Transport Department will release implementation guidelines shortly. Aggregators must update their apps and operations to align with the new norms, including features like penalties for misconduct and stronger cybersecurity protocols.
A Fair Ride For All
The Aggregator Cabs Policy 2025 is a game-changer for urban mobility in Maharashtra, balancing the interests of passengers, drivers, and platforms. Once fully in force, the policy promises safe, fair, and reliable commuting for millions.