Uber rolled up in Mumbai in early 2014 with a simple mission: to help Mumbaikars get a ride when they needed it the most. Two and a half years later, the platform has been accessed by over 5.8 million people in the city and in Maharashtra. By disincentivizing private car ownership and promoting ridesharing, the city has taken an important step towards reducing congestion.

Meanwhile, a thriving micro-entrepreneur ecosystem has emerged in which people can carve out better, more secure futures for their families. They are our partners – your drivers – the people responsible for Uber’s round-the-clock reliability.

mumbai_eyeballs-1024x724Last month, the state government proposed regulations that govern the ridesharing industry. We welcome this recognition of the industry and role that technology and innovation should play in addressing the mobility needs of the state. However, certain elements of the draft risk the very progress we have made in making life better for riders, drivers and the city itself.

Stipulating more that 50 percent of the vehicles on the ride-sharing platforms must be over 1400cc means economical and fuel efficient vehicles will disappear from the platform. It also takes away the freedom and flexibility of drivers to have the vehicle of their choice, forcing them to buy more expensive cars which will in turn increase fares.

The proposed steep increase in the price of permits needed to drive on ridesharing platforms creates barriers to accessing economic opportunities for drivers. Also of concern are restrictions that put a cap on the minimum amount that can be charged for a trip, preventing market forces determining lower fares when possible.

Taken together, these moves strike at the heart of our promise of ensuring affordable and convenient rides to Mumbaikars whenever possible. They jeopardise the benefits ridesharing bring, in terms of reduced congestion.

Uber is committed to serving riders and drivers in Mumbai. We look forward to discussing the draft with the government, aiming toward the shared goal of a sustainable city that fosters entrepreneurship and economic growth.

Shailesh Sawlani
GM, Uber Mumbai