1 min readMumbaiMar 13, 2026 09:55 PM IST
E rickshaws and e bikes used for passenger transport in Maharashtra will now have to register with the Motor Vehicles Department and obtain permits, Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik said on Friday.
Earlier, electric rickshaws did not require separate permits; however, with their rising numbers across the state, the government has decided to include them under the permit system.
The move follows a Central government notification issued on June 30, 2016, aimed at bringing uniform rules for all vehicles used for passenger transport. Officials said the decision will ensure that electric rickshaws operate under the same regulatory framework as auto rickshaws and taxis.
The transport department has also temporarily stopped issuing new permits for auto rickshaws and taxis for the past two days while the permit process is being reviewed.
Officials said the government plans to introduce a single window system to simplify the permit process, allowing applicants to submit documents and obtain approvals at one place.
Authorities said bringing electric passenger vehicles under the permit system will help maintain proper records and ensure compliance with transport regulations.
