Karnataka transport minister Ramalinga Reddy made it clear on Monday that there was no ban on carpooling in the state, but emphasised that such apps must secure necessary legal permissions to operate.
The minister'sclarification came in the wake of reports that the state government banned carpooling apps in Bengaluru in keeping with the demands of taxi and auto associations.
"We have not banned (carpooling), this is a false news. First, let them take permission. They have not taken permission, where is the question of banning?" Reddy said while talking to reporters in Bengaluru.
The minister has also called a meeting of carpooling app aggregators at 10 am on Tuesday.
Reports claimed on Sunday that the transport department had advised residents of Bengaluru not to take rides from the carpooling apps like BlaBla car, Quick Ride among others.
These apps have been running carpool services for those who want to share their ride with others for affordable rates.
State transport department additional commissioner Mallikarjun C told the Times of India that those involved in carpooling using apps may invite repurcussions like suspension of RC for six months and a penalty of Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000.
Bengaluru, which has a population of over 11 million people, has the highest traffic density among the major Indian cities and has been witnessing traffic gridlock in several parts, leavng commuters on the road for hours.
