Patna: The Bihar state transport department has announced a complete ban on e-rickshaws and Jugaad vehicles on National and State Highways, citing concerns over road safety. All district transport officers have been instructed to ensure that these vehicles do not operate on major highways, including key routes in Patna.
In Patna, the ban specifically covers the New Bypass, Bihta–Sarmera Road, Patna–Gaya Road, and Phulwari Sharif–Danapur–Bihta Road. Across Bihar, it affects approximately 10,000 km of highways, including 3,617 km of State Highways and 6,389 km of National Highways, where e-rickshaws will no longer be permitted.
The department has also banned homemade Jugaad vehicles, which often operate without registration, insurance, or fitness certificates. These vehicles are considered unsafe because they lack proper brakes, lights, indicators, and other safety equipment, making accidents more likely. They are commonly used for passenger and goods transport in both rural and urban areas.
While the ban is aimed at reducing accidents and managing highway traffic, it may affect the livelihoods of many drivers who rely on these vehicles for income. The transport department has assured that e-rickshaw and Jugaad owners will be guided toward safer routes and alternative transport options, and vehicles that meet safety standards may be allowed to operate on certain roads in the future.
Officials emphasised that the move is part of a broader push to improve highway safety and enforce traffic regulations, and strict action will be taken against anyone violating the ban.
