Private bikes operating as taxis in Kochi could face legal action as the Motor Vehicles department (MVD) has launched a crackdown on them.

Several private bikes have been operating as taxis in the city through ride-hailing apps.

“Bikers can offer the service after getting their vehicles registered for the purpose. Once approved, the vehicles will be provided with yellow number plates like those of other commercial vehicles.. The registration process can be completed in one or two days,” said Enforcement RTO Biju Isaac.

In order to check illegal operations, Enforcement officials, posing as passengers, have begun booking bike taxis to catch violators. “Our officers are booking rides on these bikes and catching violators. The riders now know our mobile numbers used for booking and have blocked us. But we are continuing the drive by booking rides from other numbers,” said Mr. Isaac.

An inspection by five squads led by Mr. Isaac a few days ago resulted in action against 36 such bikes and a fine of ₹1.18 lakh being levied. The violations detected included operating vehicles without insurance coverage, pollution under control certificates, and licences, he said.

“Most violators were youngsters who had registered themselves on the app to earn extra income. We even came across a youth riding with a learner’s licence,” said an official.

According to officials, there is a lack of awareness among those who use these taxis and those providing the service. “Passengers relying on bike taxis should ensure that they use vehicles registered for transport purposes. Travelling in hired vehicles without a yellow registration plate could result in insurance coverage being denied in the event of an accident. We haven’t had any such cases till now in the State, but with the growing number of illegal bike taxis, such a threat exists,” said an official.

Published - July 30, 2026 10:15 pm IST