SRINAGAR: The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir has opened its doors to ride-hailing services like Ola and Uber, following the official enactment of the Jammu and Kashmir Motor Vehicle Aggregator Rules, 2023.
The Jammu and Kashmir Motor Vehicle Aggregator Rules, 2023, have been crafted after a period of soliciting public input, addressing objections, and considering suggestions from various stakeholders. These rules extend their jurisdiction to aggregators that engage vehicles within the Union territory as per the provisions of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, encompassing all categories of motor vehicles, including e-rickshaws.
To operate as an aggregator, people are required to obtain a valid license issued in accordance with these newly established regulations. This regulatory framework aims to bring uniformity and accountability to the ride-hailing sector while safeguarding the interests of both service providers and consumers.
A notable aspect of these regulations is the emphasis on behavioral aspects and gender sensitisation. The government has committed to conducting orientation workshops to ensure that drivers and service providers adhere to ethical and respectful conduct, particularly towards female passengers. This initiative aligns with the government’s broader mission to create a safe and inclusive environment for all.
Over the years, Jammu and Kashmir has grappled with complaints of overcharging and non-compliance with metered fares and predefined routes by auto-rickshaws and taxis. The introduction of Ola and Uber is anticipated to ameliorate these long-standing issues.
Ola and Uber, known for their technological prowess, bring a transparent and fair pricing system to the region. These platforms offer fixed rates per kilometre, enabling customers to calculate and verify their fares instantly through their mobile applications. This eliminates the need for price negotiations and ensures equitable and transparent pricing.
