Chandigarh administration seeks Centre’s help for GPS-based curbs: A practical reader guide

Chandigarh administration seeks Centre's help for GPS-based curbs: A practical reader guide

The Chandigarh administration has approached the Centre for GPS-based blocking of suspended cab aggregator apps, as vehicles continue to operate through the platforms despite suspension of their licences.

Enforcement has also been stepped up, with cabs and other vehicles being challaned and, where necessary, impounded, officials said.

The administration has suspended the licences of all four major app-based aggregators operating in the city — Ola, inDrive, Uber and Rapido — for six months at different stages. The enforcement has also raised concerns among drivers dependent on app-based platforms for their livelihood. Uber and Rapido were the latest to face action on September 8, following the suspension of Ola in June and inDrive in August. The action was taken over alleged non-compliance with the Chandigarh Motor Vehicles Aggregators Rules, 2025, including prescribed fares, driver insurance and training requirements. Nearly 390 challans have been issued and 25 vehicles impounded since the suspension of Uber and Rapido took effect on September 8, according to the State Transport Authority (STA).

We have also written to the Union ministry to enable GPS-based blocking of the suspended aggregator apps, so that the suspension can be enforced more effectively.

Chandigarh transport secretary Diprava Lakra said, “Challaning and impounding of vehicles is already discouraging cab drivers and commuters from using the suspended apps.

Commercial bike-taxi riders protested outside the STA office earlier this week, seeking recognition of their services.

The union has sought implementation of prescribed fares, medical check-ups, medical and term insurance for drivers, and action against private white-plate vehicles being used for commercial passenger rides. The Chandigarh Tricity Driver Union, meanwhile, has sought continuation of the suspension until aggregators comply with the June 24, 2025, aggregator policy and July 7, 2025, cab and auto fare notification. On Friday, the administration launched Bharat Taxi as an alternative for commuters.