Quick Overview
- Maharashtra RTOs shut down 75 Ola Electric showrooms for operating without valid trade certificates.
- Inspections revealed 121 out of 146 outlets were non-compliant; 192 scooters seized.
- Ola Electric denies allegations, claims cooperation with authorities.
Ola Electric Faces Regulatory Heat as 75 Showrooms Shut Down in Maharashtra
In a significant setback for Ola Electric, Maharashtra’s Regional Transport Offices (RTOs) have closed 75 of the company’s showrooms across the state. The action follows inspections revealing that 121 out of 146 outlets were operating without the mandatory trade certificates required under the Central Motor Vehicles Act .
The crackdown began in early March 2025, focusing on Ola’s “experience centres” in cities like Mumbai and Pune. Authorities discovered that many outlets lacked individual trade certificates or were sharing a single certificate among multiple locations—a clear violation of regulatory norms .
On April 16, the state’s joint transport commissioner issued a directive to shut down non-compliant centres immediately and cancel their trade certificates. Within 24 hours, RTOs reported the closure of 75 showrooms and the seizure of 192 electric scooters .
Ola Electric has refuted the allegations, stating that the claims are “speculative, incorrect, and misplaced.” The company asserts that it is working closely with Maharashtra authorities to address any concerns .
This development adds to Ola Electric’s recent challenges, including reported discrepancies in February sales figures and plans to lay off over 1,000 employees as part of a restructuring effort .
Final Thoughts
Well, Ola Electric seems to be navigating a bumpy road in Maharashtra. Operating without the necessary paperwork? That’s like riding an e-scooter without a helmet—risky and bound to attract attention. Let’s hope they get their regulatory act together before more wheels come off.