LUCKNOW, July 11 -- Despite the Union government's move to block battery management apps, e-rickshaw operators in the state capital allege that Bluetooth-enabled batteries are still being remotely switched off, forcing vehicles to come to a sudden halt on busy roads.

The unusual technical problem has disrupted the city's e-rickshaw network. Operators say that sudden shutdowns are forcing e-rickshaws to stop abruptly in the middle of roads, affecting drivers, passengers and traffic movement. Several videos purportedly showing such incidents have also circulated online.

The Union government on July 3 directed that battery management apps be blocked after users discovered they could remotely switch off e-rickshaw batteries even while the v...