Following the Karnataka High Court’s suspension of bike taxi operations, the state transport department has seized hundreds of vehicles, forcing riders to seek alternative livelihoods. Many have now turned to delivery apps like Swiggy, Zomato, and Porter, but the shift has brought new challenges in an already overcrowded gig economy.
With lakhs of delivery workers already on these platforms, the sudden influx of ex-bike taxi riders has intensified competition, resulting in plummeting earnings. “I earned ₹1,000 daily with Rapido. Now, with Swiggy, I barely make ₹500,” said Somitra Nath, a delivery partner.
The Delivery Boys’ Association criticized the government for the abrupt ban, pointing out that sudden enforcement of regulations — such as mandating yellow board registration — has disrupted thousands of livelihoods. “Many who relied on bike taxis are now forced into low-paying or unstable jobs,” a spokesperson said.
Adding to the uncertainty is a recent advisory by the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, which raised concerns over the commercial use of private two-wheelers. The advisory cited rising traffic violations, urban congestion, and safety risks, sparking fear among gig workers that delivery bikes might also face future restrictions.
The situation has left many workers caught in a web of regulatory unpredictability and financial instability. As competition among delivery partners grows, calls for a clear, supportive policy framework for gig economy workers are gaining urgency. Without it, many fear they could be pushed further into economic distress.