Team Goemkarponn
MOPA: A tense situation prevailed at the entrance of Manohar International Airport (MIA) on Monday after hundreds of taxi operators staged a protest against the recent hike in parking and entry fees.
The drivers, carrying placards and banners, alleged that the steep increase in charges has added to their financial burden and will ultimately push up travel costs for passengers. They argued that the hike directly cuts into their earnings and disrupts the livelihoods of those who depend on taxi services for airport transportation.
Taxi operators voiced strong opposition to the sudden increase in entry fees from ₹80 to ₹200, calling the hike arbitrary and unaffordable. Several operators said the decision was taken without consulting stakeholders and warned that passengers may be driven to alternative transport options, further denting their income.
The protestors have called upon airport authorities to initiate dialogue with taxi associations and work out a more balanced solution. They warned that if their demands are not met, they may be compelled to intensify their agitation in the coming weeks.
The protest drew widespread attention, with Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai voicing concern over the issue. Sardesai urged authorities to review the decision, stressing that such sudden fee hikes place an unfair strain on both drivers and commuters.
Authorities have not yet announced any rollback or revision of the parking charges.
