MUZAFFARABAD: The no-objection certificates (NOCs) previously issued to three companies operating ride-hailing motorcycle services in the capital of Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) and its surrounding areas have been revoked by the district administration.

The suspension will remain in place until new terms of reference (TORs) for the service are finalised, a spokesperson for the district administration said, citing decisions made at a meeting on Friday.

The meeting, chaired by Deputy Commissioner Mudassar Farooq, was convened to address complaints regarding disorderly parking, traffic violations and the alleged involvement of some motorcycles in illegal activities.

Residents had initially welcomed the introduction of the bike-taxi service, commonly referred to as “Bykea” in Muzaffarabad. However, as time passed, it became increasingly common to see individuals wearing substandard green helmets and riding poorly-maintained motorcycles, raising concerns about both safety and service quality.

According to the spokesperson, moving forward, all companies linked to ride-hailing motorcycle services will be allowed to operate only after meeting specific terms and conditions.

These companies, which must be registered with the joint registrar of companies and firms, will be required to ensure that all motorcycles under their management are registered and insured within 10 days of receiving their NOCs from the district administration.

“No motorcycle will be allowed to transport passengers without proper registration, insurance, a valid driving license and an official number plate,” the spokesperson said.

In line with the capacity and traffic requirements of the capital, the administration will limit the number of registered motorcycles to a maximum of 200. Additionally, motorcycles will not be permitted to park at central intersections or roundabouts, he added.

The spokesperson made it clear that registered firms will also be required to introduce a trace and track app and issue their riders with helmets of a specific colour, marked with an identification code, number plate sticker and company logo.

All motorcycles must also be equipped with functional rear-view mirrors, indicators and horns, he said.

Parking will be strictly regulated, with no more than four motorcycles allowed at designated stands set by the Municipal Corporation, traffic police and district administration to address growing parking issues. Furthermore, no more than two people will be allowed to ride a motorcycle at any time, and violations such as riding without a licence, underage riders or other traffic offenses will result in the confiscation of the bike.

The spokesperson also noted that ride-hailing companies will be required to renew their NOCs every six months.

“The district administration reserves the right to withdraw or cancel an NOC at any time, based on recommendations from the traffic police or law enforcement agencies, and in consideration of national security, crime prevention, traffic management, or other essential factors,” he added.

In addition, all registered companies will be required to obtain a national tax number, maintain financial records and submit their tax returns, as well as provide complete data on their motorcycles and riders to the district administration, the spokesperson said.

Published in Dawn, October 5th, 2024