Mumbai, Aug. 26 -- Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik has responded to Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Sanjay Raut's concerns over the government's decision to allow app-based bike taxi services, saying the government will protect the livelihoods of traditional autorickshaw and taxi drivers while also ensuring employment opportunities for Marathi youth.

In his response to Raut's August 23 letter, Sarnaik said he understood the concerns of autorickshaw drivers over the proposed entry of bike taxis, but stressed that the employment opportunities created by the new mode of transport also needed to be considered.

"I understand this concern. However, it should also not be forgotten that the decision to introduce bike-taxis will provide new emp...