Local taxis plying within the periphery of capital is over charging form the passengers against the notified rates provided by the department of Transport.

The taxi drivers are not strictly complying the rate board fixed by the department concerned as viewed since months. Considering the issue of overcharging the people here in the capital are demanding strict action against such drivers who are engaged in overcharging of fare to the Motor Vehicle Division, of Transport department. Common people residing in an around Tadong have alleged that drivers are overcharging the passengers like instead of Rs.5/- fixed fare from Deorali to Tadong the drivers are demanding Rs.10/- whereas from Gangtok town to Indira Bye pass is Rs.12/- but they are charged with Rs.15 by drivers and many more issues on overcharging were informed.

Speaking to the media regarding the issue of overcharging Road Transport Officer (RTO) Mr. Mohan Gurung, Motor Vehicle Division informed that if such activities are established then strict action will be taken against the drivers as overcharging is illegal and legal action under 177of Central Motor Vehicle Act, 1985 will be filed. If any complaints are received from the passengers to the office of the RTO immediate action will be taken.

Mr. Gurung mentioned that few months back the department had issued a Notification regarding the new fare chart but due to some mistake in the chart the correction is underway but soon the fresh chart on fares will be provided and according to the new chart the drivers can charge fare from the passengers. In regards to the overcharging Mr. Gurung informed that till date no complains from any of the commuters have been received by the department on overcharging but if the person comes forward with such issue then action will be taken strictly.

President, Joint Action Committee of driver association Mr. Chungchung Bhutia informed that the association is still not satisfied with the revised fare chart notified by the department concerned as the association had demanded 30% increase whereas only 15% was met. Adding further Mr. Bhutia said that the association has already submitted a memorandum to the concerned department demanding increase in fare by 30% considering the market inflation.

Mr. Bhutia added that people are opposing only the increase in taxi fare rather than the hike in price of food commodities in market. The drivers are also human beings having. Regarding overcharging allegation Mr. Bhutia said that Joint Action Committee after holding a meet with all its members will take decision soon.

Courtesy: Sikkim Mail

 

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