Supreme Court Criticizes Maharashtra Authorities Over E-Rickshaw License Misallocation in Matheran

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The Supreme Court expressed strong displeasure with the Maharashtra government for allegedly flouting its orders regarding the allocation of e-rickshaw licenses in Matheran, an eco-sensitive hill town. The licenses, intended for handcart pullers as compensation for their loss of livelihood, were allegedly granted to individuals such as hotel managers, municipal employees, and even a corporator’s wife.

Key Observations by the Court:

  1. Violation of Orders: A bench of Justices B.R. Gavai and K.V. Viswanathan questioned why out of the 20 licenses issued, only 4 were granted to handcart pullers, with others going to ineligible individuals.
  2. Displeasure Over Process: The Court criticized the state for conducting a “lucky draw” that resulted in questionable allocations, including one individual receiving two licenses.
  3. Government Accountability: Justice Gavai warned the state against making a “mockery” of the Court’s directives and expressed the intention to summon the District Collector for clarifications.

Background:

Pilot E-Rickshaw Project: In 2022, the Court permitted Maharashtra to introduce e-rickshaws in Matheran on an experimental basis, restricted to handcart pullers only. This was to ensure eco-friendly transportation while compensating for employment loss caused by banning hand-pulled rickshaws.

Misallocation Allegations: Associations of horsemen (ghodawala sangathans) brought attention to irregularities in license allocations, claiming they were issued to non-handcart pullers like hotel owners and municipal officials.

Previous Directions: In April 2024, the Court instructed Maharashtra to submit an affidavit listing the names of the original handcart pullers and those allotted e-rickshaw licenses.

Next Steps:

The state government has been granted one week to respond to the findings of the Principal District Judge, who conducted an inquiry into the irregularities. Further action is anticipated during the next hearing.

Environmental Context:

This case is part of the T.N. Godavarman Thirumulpad litigation, where the Supreme Court oversees various environmental matters, including eco-sensitive zones like Matheran.

Case Title: T.N. Godavarman Thirumulpad v. Union of India & Ors., W.P. (C) No. 202 of 1995.

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