When the Karnataka High Court delivered a firm judgment banning bike taxis from operating in the state, it seemed like the end of the road for app-based two-wheeler transport services like Rapido. But in a bold—and borderline bizarre—twist, Rapido has launched a workaround that’s making waves online: instead of transporting passengers, they now “deliver parcels”—and in this case, the passenger is the parcel.
Yes, you read that right.
The Ban That Changed Everything
In early 2024, the Karnataka HC ruled that bike taxis operating with private registration numbers were in violation of state transport norms. The verdict, which came after months of legal back-and-forth, effectively pulled the brakes on a thriving micro-mobility sector in Bengaluru and other cities.
The state’s transport department maintained that private bikes could not legally ferry passengers commercially. This led to suspension notices, app delistings, and widespread confusion for riders and users alike.
Rapido’s ‘Creative’ Detour
But Rapido, known for its agility in crowded urban markets, didn’t surrender. Instead, it introduced a “parcel delivery” model, where the rider technically doesn’t carry a human commuter—but a parcel.
While Rapido’s app still shows the booking as a delivery, users are directed to enter their name and pickup/drop locations as if they were a standard package. In-app disclaimers reportedly mention that the user agrees to be delivered as a parcel, purely for “delivery service purposes.”
Screenshots of the app’s updated interface flooded social media within hours, with some users joking:
“While innovative, this approach is unlikely to stand the scrutiny of the Motor Vehicles Act,” says transport law analyst Adv. Shreya Murthy. “A human cannot be classified as a parcel under any established logistics definitions. If an accident occurs, the liability question becomes a nightmare.”
Officials from the Karnataka Transport Department have hinted that further enforcement measures are coming, and this workaround may not fly for long.
Public Reaction: Memes, Mayhem & Mixed Feelings
Online, the reaction has been a cocktail of hilarity and frustration.
Some users praised Rapido for their “jugadu spirit” in the face of rigid regulation.
Others expressed concern over safety, insurance, and whether the workaround mocks judicial authority.
Meme-makers had a field day, with trending hashtags like #HumanParcel and #DeliverMeRapido surfacing on X (formerly Twitter).
“Next time you book Rapido, remember—you’re not a customer. You’re cargo,” quipped one user.
The Bigger Picture
The episode shines a spotlight on India’s regulatory lag when it comes to emerging urban mobility solutions. While cities are choking under traffic and pollution, bike taxis remain caught in legislative limbo, especially in states like Karnataka, where EV and mobility policies exist but lack coherence.
Startups argue that bike taxis:
Help reduce congestion
Are affordable for low-income riders
Offer gig workers more earning options
But state authorities insist that rules must be followed and passenger safety ensured.
What’s Next for Rapido?
Industry insiders suggest that Rapido is already working on a fully electric fleet to comply with Karnataka’s Electric Bike Taxi Scheme. The current workaround may just be a stopgap until proper commercial licenses are granted.
Meanwhile, users can still book “parcel rides”—but how long this trick lasts is anyone’s guess.
Rapido’s response to the Karnataka bike taxi ban is a case study in innovation under pressure. Whether you see it as genius or desperation, it’s a reminder that in India’s startup space, creativity is just one regulation away from controversy.
Until regulators and ride-tech companies find common ground, riders in Karnataka will have to decide: Are you ready to be a parcel with a pulse?
Last Updated on: Tuesday, June 17, 2025 1:47 pm by Muthangi Anil Kumar | Published by: Muthangi Anil Kumar on Tuesday, June 17, 2025 1:47 pm | News Categories:News, Trending
Muthangi Anilkumar is a content writer covering India news, business, sports, technology, lifestyle, education, and entertainment. With a background in engineering from ICFAI Hyderabad, he brings a sharp, research-driven approach to reporting current events and trends.
