Uber Shuttle faces permit issues in Hyderabad; buses fined

In Hyderabad, Uber Shuttle's launch is facing serious issues with permits. Over 40 buses operating under the Uber Shuttle name were fined, and 11 buses were seized by the police. This occurred during a special traffic enforcement operation on March 18, 2025. Many of the seized buses had permits intended for wedding parties or sightseeing. They did not have the valid permissions required for stage-carriage operations. According to Madhapur DCP (Traffic) T. Sai Manohar, the drivers also lacked necessary vehicle documents like registration, insurance, and fitness certificates. A stage carriage permit allows buses to operate along specific routes and pick up and drop off passengers for a fare. This permit is issued by the Regional Transport Authority under the Motor Vehicles Act. If the regulations are violated, both the ride-hailing platform and the bus owners may face legal consequences and fines. The traffic officer noted that nearly one in four buses in Gachibowli was an Uber Shuttle. Police caught over 40 buses in just one hour and issued fines that ranged from ₹1,000 to ₹2,000 for various violations. Currently, it is estimated that around 800 Uber Shuttle buses are operating in the city. Uber launched this Shuttle service in Hyderabad following its success in other cities like Delhi and Kolkata. The service aims to offer a convenient transportation option to help ease traffic in the area. It connects residential neighborhoods to the IT corridor. Officials clarified that buses used for staff transport through ride-hailing platforms are classified as contract carriages. These vehicles are supposed to transport commuters directly from one location to another without picking up additional passengers. Cyberabad Commissioner Avinash Mohanty stated that inspections will continue. The cases will be sent to the State Transport Department for further action. In light of the fines, some bus owners reached out to the police to express their concerns. They will meet with traffic officials to discuss potential solutions.