Overview

• The Karnataka High Court suspended app-based bike taxi services on June 16 pending state-level guidelines under the Motor Vehicles Act.
• Since then, Bengaluru riders have bypassed the ban by contacting commuters through WhatsApp using phone numbers saved from past trips or payment records.
• Some drivers are also routing passenger rides through parcel-delivery requests, calling customers to arrange direct pickups after shipment cancellations.
• The informal networks span high-demand corridors including Koramangala, Electronic City, Bellandur, Silk Board and the Outer Ring Road.
• With bike taxis offline, autorickshaw fares for trips under 2 km have surged to ₹120–₹150 and commuters are urging government action to clarify regulations.