Mumbai: With illegal passenger transport rising across Maharashtra, the state govt flagged serious concerns over commuter safety, revenue loss, and unfair competition to authorised operators. Transport minister Pratap Sarnaik on Friday directed over 50 RTOs across the state to launch a statewide crackdown from March 1, focusing on vehicles ferrying passengers without valid permits, fitness certificates, insurance, or licences.Sarnaik issued directives at a review meeting held at Vidhan Bhavan, attended by the new transport commissioner Rajesh Narvekar and other senior officials.The minister said unauthorised passenger services often operate with overloaded vehicles, irregular maintenance, and poor compliance with safety norms, increasing the risk of accidents and endangering lives.He underlined that when such vehicles lack valid insurance, accident victims and their families face hurdles in securing compensation. In many cases, owners or drivers attempt to evade responsibility, delaying relief and legal recourse. The minister also pointed to significant losses to the state exchequer due to unpaid taxes and permit fees, while legitimate operators bear compliance costs.Sarnaik said illegal transport also distorts the market for authorised services, including the state-run ST corporation, by undercutting fares and drawing away passengers. This, he noted, can affect scheduled routes, timetables, and the financial stability of public transport operations.Officials were told the issue extends beyond economics and road safety. Experts warned that unregulated passenger movement, without proper passenger records, can be misused for crimes such as trafficking, robbery, and other offences, complicating investigations for enforcement agencies.Sarnaik also stressed on the need to make legal compliance easier through transparent, online licensing and permit processes, while urging citizens to choose licensed services. A safer, accountable, and reliable transport system, he said, will require strict action against violators along with public participation.
