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Rules for app-based passenger transport services like Ola, Uber and Rapido are going to become more stringent in Maharashtra. The transport department has made new rules for everything from aggregator companies to drivers and vehicles. This new system will be implemented from September 1. After this, companies providing app-based passenger services will be required to obtain a license from the transport authority.

**Required license for aggregator companies**

Under the new rules, aggregator companies providing app-based passenger services will be required to obtain a license from the transport authority. This means that companies like Ola, Uber and Rapido will have to work following these rules. The purpose of this new system is to bring app-based passenger services under the regulatory oversight of the transport department.

**Documents required for drivers**

Drivers driving on these apps will be required to have a valid driving license and badge. Also, they should have basic knowledge of Marathi language. Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik has said that it is necessary to know Marathi to drive in the state; Therefore, drivers will have to take a Marathi language test when applying for a license. RTO officials will be authorized to investigate it and take necessary action. Additionally, when applying for the badge, drivers will have to provide proof of 15 years of residence in Mumbai or the city where they wish to provide service. Police verification report will also be necessary.

**12 hour driving limit**

In the new system, rules have also been set for the working hours of drivers, under which they cannot drive for more than 12 hours continuously. There is also a provision to ensure that drivers get at least 80 percent of the total fare collected. The move aims to create a cleaner system for both working hours and driver earnings.

**GPS-Based Vehicle Monitoring**

The vehicles used for the app-based taxi service will be tracked through GPS. The transport department will also do verification of drivers and online monitoring of vehicles. With this, the movement of vehicles and information to the driver can be monitored. The move aims to strengthen oversight of passenger safety and service quality.

**App options will be available in three languages**

Under the new rules, aggregator companies will be required to provide app and website services in three languages ​​– Marathi, Hindi and English. This will ensure that passengers and drivers will have access to the platform in all three languages.

**Action against fake documents**

Legal action will be taken against drivers who obtain licenses using fake documents. The license of such drivers may be canceled and legal action may also be taken against them. After the rules for taxis and auto-rickshaws, the transport department is now preparing to tighten the rules for all app-based passenger vehicles like Ola, Uber and Rapido. The new rules will come into effect from September 1.