Authorities acted after an alleged disruption of app-based airport transport at MBB Airport on September 30, with police arresting two persons and the Transport Department of Tripura ordering further action under law.
Key Takeaways:
- Tripura Transport Department condemned the alleged harassment of passengers and obstruction of an Uber auto-rickshaw at MBB Airport on September 30.
- Airport Police arrested two persons, while a joint Transport-Police team reviewed the incident and police action.
- The department warned against obstructing lawful app-based transport services and directed action against the auto driver/owner involved, subject to due process.
The Tripura Transport Department has condemned the alleged harassment of air passengers and obstruction of an app-based Uber auto-rickshaw at Maharaja Bir Bikram Airport in Agartala.
In a press statement on October 1, the department said the incident reportedly took place on the night of September 30. It said passengers allegedly faced obstruction while trying to use an authorised app-based transport service from the airport.
The department described passenger choice and access to lawful transport as key elements of a safe and passenger-friendly transport system. It also reiterated that no individual or group can interfere with an authorised service.
App-Based Transport Service Faces Obstruction
The government formally launched the app-based transport service at MBB Airport on September 3. The Transport Minister attended the inauguration.
At the time, the authorities issued clear instructions to transport operators and others. They directed all concerned not to obstruct the lawful operation of the service or inconvenience passengers.
The latest incident has prompted the Transport Department to reiterate those instructions.
The department said no syndicate, association, group or individual has the authority to prevent passengers from choosing a lawful transport option.
It also warned against intimidating drivers or stopping vehicles. Preventing passengers from boarding or disrupting authorised transport services can attract action under the law, it said.
Two Persons Arrested
Airport Police Station arrested two persons after authorities received information about the incident.
Police are questioning the arrested persons as part of the ongoing process. The police authority has also informed the Transport Department that legal action will follow.
A senior-level joint team from the Transport and Police Departments visited MBB Airport following the incident. The team inspected the reported site and also visited the Airport Police Station.
The team reviewed the circumstances surrounding the incident and examined the action taken by police.
The joint visit forms part of the authorities’ effort to ascertain the facts and ensure appropriate action.
Action Ordered Against Auto Driver or Owner
The Transport Department has directed action against the driving licence and vehicle registration connected with the defaulting auto driver or owner.
The department said the suspension of the driving licence and vehicle registration will remain subject to due process of law.
The direction comes amid the department’s warning against any attempt to obstruct authorised transport services at the airport.
Government Reaffirms Passenger Choice
The Transport Department said the government is promoting technology-enabled and choice-based transportation at MBB Airport.
App-based cab and auto services form part of this approach. The department stressed that passengers must have the freedom to select a lawful transport service.
It said passengers should not face fear, intimidation or interference while making that choice.
The department also made clear that it will not permit any unauthorised monopoly over airport passenger transport.
The warning covers transport operators, driver associations and other groups involved in airport transportation.
Operators Asked to Maintain Discipline
The Transport Department appealed to all operators and driver associations to maintain discipline and cooperate with government authorities.
It also urged stakeholders to protect Tripura’s image as a safe, hospitable and passenger-friendly state.
Officials concerned have received instructions to monitor the situation closely. They must also take steps to prevent a recurrence of similar incidents.
The department said the government remains committed to protecting the rights, safety and dignity of every passenger.
It also reiterated that all lawful transport services must receive the opportunity to operate freely and without intimidation.
The department’s latest position reinforces its earlier direction that passengers at MBB Airport should be able to access authorised transport services without obstruction.
