Mumbai: From Tuesday, app-based cab drivers attached to aggregators such as Ola, Uber and Rapido will also come under the direct scanner of transport authorities along with auto and taxi drivers as Maharashtra will begin enforcing its mandatory Marathi language rule for commercial passenger vehicle drivers.Regional Transport Office (RTO) flying squads will conduct random inspections across Mumbai and other parts of the state to verify whether drivers possess a basic working knowledge of Marathi. State transport officials said around 1.65 lakh auto and taxi drivers have completed Marathi language training conducted under the government-backed learning programme. However, officials and union leaders acknowledge that a significant number of drivers associated with app-based platforms are yet to undergo training.The enforcement drive has triggered concern among aggregator drivers, many of whom migrated from states such as Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Jharkhand and depend on ride-hailing platforms for their livelihood.“A substantial number have not been able to complete the training because there are not enough centres,” said union leader Shashank Rao. “Drivers are willing to learn Marathi and communicate with passengers. The challenge is access to training facilities and the limited time available.”The union has reiterated its demand for an extension of the implementation August 15 deadline until January 26, arguing that thousands of drivers are still undergoing training. It has also sought a temporary halt on punitive action during this period.For the first time, app-based cab drivers attached to aggregators such as Ola, Uber and Rapido under the direct scanner of transport authorities. The language rule applies equally to autorickshaw drivers, taxi operators and aggregator cab drivers under the Maharashtra Motor Vehicles amendment provisions.While the government maintains that the measure is intended to improve communication between drivers and passengers, Tuesday’s enforcement drive will serve as the first major test of compliance among Maharashtra’s rapidly expanding app-based cab workforce.Drivers who fail to demonstrate basic Marathi communication skills may face action after due process, including the issuance of a one-month show-cause notice. Continued non-compliance could result in suspension or cancellation of licences.
