Visitors heading to Alibag in Maharashtra for a weekend break can now rent motorcycles and scooters for local travel, similar to popular tourist destinations like Goa and Kerala, reported the PTI.
According to officials from the Maharashtra Transport Department, licences have been granted to two service providers in the coastal town.
The State Transport Authority (STA) of Maharashtra approved two licences in August under the Rent a Motorcycle Scheme, 1997. The scheme permits registered operators to rent out two-wheelers to tourists and short-term users on an hourly or daily basis, provided they comply with regulatory and safety standards.
Although the scheme was introduced in 1997, only a handful of licences were issued during its early years. The government temporarily suspended it in 2015 following opposition from taxi and autorickshaw unions in Mahabaleshwar, a popular hill station.
In June this year, the Maharashtra government lifted the nine-year freeze on the scheme, allowing regulated two-wheeler rental services to operate across the state.
Officials say the move is expected to boost tourism and provide a new livelihood opportunity for locals. As awareness spreads, more applicants from Konkan and other tourist-heavy areas are likely to seek licences.
“In regions like Konkan, which is rich in beaches, temples, forts, and other attractions, these rental bikes and scooters can be a convenient and affordable transport option, especially for solo travellers and couples,” a senior RTO official stated.
He added that many tourist areas suffer from unregulated fares by taxis and autorickshaws, and having a legal rental option would help curb such exploitation.
The two operators who received licences are based in Alibag, which lies around 100 km from Mumbai. The licences were approved during the STA meeting held on 18 August, an RTO official told PTI.
“These are the first two licences issued under the Rent a Motorcycle Scheme in almost ten years,” he said.
Alibag remains a popular destination throughout the year, particularly on weekends and holidays. Tourists often extend their visits to places like Murud-Janjira, Harihareshwar, Raigad Fort, Tamhini Ghat, Pali Ganapati, Diveagar, and Kolad, as per thee PTI.
The official also revealed that some locals and hotels had previously been illegally renting out scooters and motorcycles. With the revival of the scheme, tourists can now legally hire two-wheelers from licensed providers.
As per the STA guidelines, operators must keep a register of all renters, including foreign nationals and NRIs.
The rent-a-motorcycle licence, valid for five years and carrying an annual fee of ₹1,000, will fall under the jurisdiction of the Pen Regional Transport Office (RTO).
To be eligible, operators must maintain a fleet of at least five two-wheelers, each with valid permits, insurance, fitness certificates, and adequate space for parking and maintenance, the news agency reported.
(with PTI input)
