Goemkarponn Desk
MOPA: The Taxi operators at Mopa on Thursday resorted to strike ‘Chakka Jam’ alleging harassment meted out to them by GMR which runs Manohar International Airport.
The Taxi operators who gathered outside Dy Collector office in Pernem claimed they won’t move an inch until Chief Minister Pramod Sawant visits spot and holds talks.
The taxi operators have also issued a warning that if the government does not address this matter, there may be a law and order issue for which it will be held entirely accountable, and a representation to this effect was made to the Pernem Deputy Collector.
Even though Pednekars received Blue Cab taxi permits at Mopa airport, the irate taxi operators said that other counters were making it harder for them to conduct business.
They said that on taxi drivers from all around the State would congregate in Pernem to support the protest.
Operators also raised concerns about taxi meters and alleged that commission deductions leave them with minimal earnings.
“We were accused of overcharging, so we had to install taxi meters, but we don’t benefit from them at all. The persons at the counters deduct their commission directly from our earnings,” said the taxi operator.
The operators demanded government recognition of the counter. “The blue cab counter should have been handed over to us after it was notified as a stand.
Besides, around 250 youth are jobless since they have still not received permits. The government or GMR should prioritize these,” said one of the operators, while demanding subsequent ouster of app-based taxis.
They sought justice for their livelihoods and urged authorities to listen to their concerns.
“We only want justice to sustain our livelihood, but authorities have been making us run from pillar to post,” taxi operator said
The local taxi drivers bemoaned that the State government had not yet addressed their problems, despite the fact that they had invested in the industry in the hopes of gaining business.
The GoaMiles taxi operators, according to the local taximen, are stealing their business and are from outside the State.
Additionally, they pleaded with the government to punish government workers who run and conduct business with GoaMiles harshly.
The local taxi operators claimed that their issues had not been resolved even though Mopa airport has started over a year ago.
