Uber, Ola, Rapido and other ride-hailing businesses will soon witness a new competitor in Maharashtra as the Devendra Fadnavis government is considering to launch its own app-based transport service. People will be able to book autorickshaws, taxis, and e-bikes in the state through this application. The new government-run app is likely to be named Jai Maharashtra, Maha-Ride, Maha-Yatri, or Maha-Go, Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik said. However, the launch of the government app is yet to get approval from Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar. “To develop the app, discussions are underway with the Maharashtra Institute for Transport Technology and MITRA, along with private firms. The app will include all necessary provisions to maintain transparency and will be developed soon,” Sarnaik said. Under this initiative, the minister said special financial assistance will be provided to unemployed youth to purchase vehicles at an interest rate of just 10 per cent. “Mumbai Bank Chairman Praveen Darekar assured that this initiative will enable financial aid to reach deserving candidates. Additionally, government corporations such as Annasaheb Economic Development Corporation, Vimukta Jati Corporation, OBC Corporation, and MSDC will provide an 11 per cent interest subsidy, making the loan effectively interest-free,” he said. Sarnaik also mentioned that the app’s policy framework is in the final stage, in line with the Central Government’s Aggregator Guidelines. He criticised private companies for exploiting both drivers and passengers through unauthorised apps. “With sufficient infrastructure, technology, and manpower, the government’s app will benefit both passengers and drivers,” he emphasised. A final review meeting on the app is scheduled for August 5 at Mantralaya, with MLA Praveen Darekar, technical experts, and government officials expected to attend. Earlier this month, the minister warned app-based transport businesses, saying buses, cars and bike taxis operating in the state must follow the rules and regulations. He has also given directions to officials to take strict legal action against any private transport services –whether buses, cars or bike taxis– that violate regulations. (With ANI inputs)