The Karnataka Transport Department has launched a major enforcement drive against unauthorised bike taxi operations in Bengaluru, resulting in the seizure of more than 200 motorcycles allegedly being used for commercial passenger services without proper registration and permits.
The coordinated inspection campaign was conducted simultaneously across all 11 Regional Transport Office (RTO) jurisdictions in the city. Enforcement teams carried out checks at major traffic junctions, commercial hubs, and residential areas where illegal bike taxi activities were suspected to be operating.
Officials primarily targeted motorcycles displaying white registration plates, which are meant for private use but were allegedly being used to transport passengers for payment. Under existing motor vehicle regulations, privately registered two-wheelers cannot be operated as commercial passenger vehicles without obtaining the required permissions and registrations.
Transport authorities stated that the use of private motorcycles for paid passenger services violates provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act. Officials warned that riders found involved in such activities could face multiple penalties, including vehicle impoundment, suspension of driving licences, and cancellation or suspension of vehicle registration certificates.
According to transport department officials, more than 200 motorcycles were seized during Wednesday’s operation. The enforcement action was spread across several parts of Bengaluru, with multiple RTO divisions reporting significant numbers of violations.
The Bengaluru West RTO jurisdiction recorded 10 vehicle seizures, while eight motorcycles were confiscated under the Bengaluru North RTO limits. In Rajajinagar, enforcement teams seized 12 motorcycles suspected to be operating as illegal bike taxis. The Singanayakanahalli RTO area in Yelahanka reported the highest number of seizures, with more than 40 motorcycles being impounded in a single day.
During the inspections, transport officials also examined mobile phones of some riders to verify whether they were accepting passenger bookings through app-based platforms. Authorities said this step was taken to identify riders who were providing taxi-like services using private vehicles through digital platforms.
The department maintained that the crackdown was aimed at ensuring compliance with transport laws and improving passenger safety. Officials highlighted that commercial passenger services require proper permits, insurance coverage, and regulatory approvals to protect both commuters and service providers.
The transport department is expected to continue similar enforcement drives across Bengaluru to identify and take action against unauthorised bike taxi operations. Officials have urged vehicle owners to follow legal requirements and avoid using private vehicles for commercial purposes.