India News : Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari has urged state governments to approve bike taxi services to improve transportation facilities and create new employment opportunities. Gadkari said allowing private motorcycles and scooters to carry passengers could open a new source of income, particularly in rural areas, and potentially provide employment to nearly 8 crore people.
Gadkari said the central government has already permitted bike taxis, but transport is a subject handled by the states. He noted that some state governments have not yet approved the service and appealed to them to allow bike taxis so that people can gain access to another avenue for earning.
Proposal for Negative Points System
Gadkari also spoke about strengthening action against motorists who repeatedly violate traffic rules. He said the government is preparing to propose changes to the Motor Vehicles Act to introduce a negative points system for drivers.
The proposed system is aimed at taking stricter action against drivers who repeatedly break traffic regulations.
Mandatory Training for Heavy Vehicle Drivers
The Union minister also stressed the need for mandatory training for drivers operating heavy vehicles. He said there is currently no such compulsory system across the country.
Gadkari appealed to companies such as JCB India and others to provide proper training to drivers operating heavy machinery and vehicles.
Safety Pilot Programme Launched
During the event, Gadkari launched a Safety Pilot Programme. According to reports, the programme will provide free medical examinations and counselling to around 10 lakh drivers and workers engaged in high-risk sectors such as highways, mining and construction.
In the first phase, around 10,000 people will undergo screening in the Nagpur-Kamptee NH-44 corridor and mining areas of Chandrapur.
Two-Wheeler Accidents Remain a Major Concern
Gadkari cited road safety figures while highlighting the risks faced by two-wheeler users. He said 81,780 deaths were recorded in two-wheeler accidents in India, describing the figure as the highest in the world.
He identified several major causes of road accidents, including failure to wear seat belts, hit-and-run incidents, driving on the wrong side of the road, drunk driving and the use of mobile phones while driving.
