E-Rickshaws Banned on Bihar’s National and State Highways, Including Key Roads in Patna

Patna: In a major move aimed at road safety, the Bihar government has imposed a statewide ban on the operation of e-rickshaws along nearly 10,000 kilometers of national and state highways. Transport Minister Shravan Kumar explained that e-rickshaws, due to their slow speed and weak braking systems, pose a serious risk on high-speed highways. The order takes immediate effect.

Highways Included in the Ban
The ban covers approximately 3,617 kilometers of state highways and 6,389 kilometers of national highways. In Patna, major routes affected include the New Bypass, Bihta-Sarmara Road, Patna-Gaya Road, and Phulwarisharif-Danapur-Bihta Road. The government has directed district transport authorities to implement the ban without delay.

Safety Concerns Behind the Decision
Minister Shravan Kumar emphasized that highways are designed for fast-moving vehicles such as trucks, buses, and cars. The presence of slow-moving e-rickshaws increases the risk of accidents. He noted that e-rickshaws lack strong braking systems necessary for sudden stops or sharp turns at high speeds, creating danger for passengers and other road users. The low speed of these vehicles makes them inherently unsafe on highways and raises the risk of fatalities and property damage.

‘Jugaad’ Vehicles Also Banned
Alongside e-rickshaws, the government has issued a complete ban on “jugaad” vehicles, which are often makeshift contraptions built from motorcycle engines and scrap wood, widely used in rural areas to transport goods and people. Officials cited that these vehicles operate without registration, fitness certificates, or insurance, violating the Motor Vehicles Act and posing a high risk of accidents. They also lack essential safety features like reliable brakes, lights, and indicators.

Opposition and Public Concern
While the government defends the decision on safety grounds, the ban has sparked concern among e-rickshaw drivers and passengers, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas where these vehicles are a key mode of transport. E-rickshaw drivers fear a loss of livelihood, as thousands depend on them for daily income. The E-Rickshaw Union has criticized the move, alleging political motivations behind the decision. Union General Secretary Himanshu Kumar claimed that other auto-rickshaw and cab associations want e-rickshaws completely off the roads.

Impact on Passengers
Passengers have also voiced concerns over daily commuting challenges. Rajesh Gupta, a resident of Kankarbagh, said that residents along bypass routes will face difficulties, as auto-rickshaws often do not enter inner residential areas. Ramesh Sinha from Naubatpur highlighted that e-rickshaws provide an affordable transport option for low-income families, and the ban may force commuters to rely on more expensive or less convenient alternatives.

The ban is expected to affect approximately 8,000 e-rickshaws in Patna district alone, out of the 3 lakh operating across the state, signaling a significant shift in urban and intercity mobility.