Srinagar, Mar 09: Communist Party of India (Marxist) leader and MLA Kulgam, Muhammad Yousuf Tarigami has urged the government to address the growing issues in the transport sector, particularly the challenges faced by local tourist taxi operators. He said there is a need for fair regulations, financial relief and strict enforcement of rules to protect the livelihoods of taxi operators.
Addressing a convention of all road transport workers’ unions of Jammu Kashmir here, Tarigami, who is also president of Centre of Indian Trade Unions (CITU) J&K, said a deputation had called him and put forth one of their biggest concerns: the operation of private vehicles as tourist taxis without commercial licenses. He said this practice creates unfair competition for legitimate operators who pay heavy taxes and tolls.
MLA Kulgam called for strict enforcement of licensing rules to prevent unauthorised operations. He demanded a review of excessive airport parking and entry fees, which add to the financial burden of transporters.
“The lack of facilities for drivers at hotels and lodges, forcing them to sleep in vehicles after long shifts, is another serious issue. The government should ensure basic amenities for drivers at accommodations. Besides, authorities should regulate permit issuance to prevent market oversaturation and establish a fixed fare structure for tourist destinations to protect both tourists and operators from unnecessary fare disputes,” he said.
The CPI(M) leader raised national-level transport concerns, demanding the rationalisation of diesel prices, insurance premiums, and toll charges. He criticised the mandatory vehicle scrapping policy and called for financial support to small transporters through government-backed loans.
“Authorities should also develop a government-controlled mobile application, similar to private companies, to protect drivers and commuters from exploitation. This app should address fare disputes and provide a grievance lodging system,” he said.
He added that there is a need to strengthen State Transport Undertakings (STUs) by restoring funding and ensuring government support for electric bus procurement. Tarigami called for immediate action to protect workers, ensure fair competition, and create a sustainable transport system.
Tarigami also demanded redressal of genuine demands of casual labourers, daily rated, need-based and other types of temporary workers. He demanded removal of the disparity in minimum wages between Ladakh and Jammu & Kashmir
Others who spoke on the occasion include Comrade Laxhmiya General Secretary All India Road Transport Workers’ Federation. Jagdish Raj Sharma leader CITU, Ab Rashid Pandit CITU Convenor Kashmir and leaders of transport unions, Mohamad Shafi and Mohamad Younus.
