Almora.
The controversy surrounding the multi-storey parking facility near Swagat is intensifying. The Taxi Union has accused the administration of going back on its word, stating that two floors of the parking were promised to the union, but reports suggest that it may now be allotted to outsiders. This has sparked anger among taxi operators.
Taxi Union President Shailendra Tilara said the parking facility was originally constructed to serve taxi operators so that traffic in the town could remain smooth and taxis could be parked in an organized manner. However, due to the administration’s current stance, taxi drivers are facing difficulties. He warned that if the union is ignored and the parking is handed over to outsiders, a major protest will be launched.
Tilara further alleged that auto-rickshaw drivers in the town are operating without any checks. Despite permission for only four passengers, they are carrying more, thereby violating rules and risking passenger safety. In addition, auto permits issued for women drivers are reportedly being misused by men.
Union officials also complained that the same vehicle is being stopped and fined multiple times at different places, while illegal vehicles continue to operate freely without restrictions. They alleged that scooter-taxi services are being run from near mechanic shops without trained drivers, which is completely unlawful and poses a serious risk of accidents.
The union particularly raised objections against the Rapido taxi service, claiming that under the Rapido name, private two-wheelers are being used as taxis in the town. These vehicles neither have proper registration nor transport department authorization. The union claimed that the RTO itself has clarified that no permission has been granted to Rapido, yet the service continues to operate unchecked.
Tilara said that taxi operators and tourists on the Kwarb Road are also facing losses because of these irregularities. He demanded that the police and administration take strict action and immediately stop the illegal operation of Rapido and other two-wheeler taxi services.
The meeting was attended by Union President Shailendra Tilara, Secretary Arjun Bisht, Senior Vice President Gopal Rawat, Treasurer Balkishan Joshi, Patrons Anup Sah and Bhuvan Chandra Bhatt. All members jointly warned that if the taxi union’s rightful demand is ignored, they will be compelled to launch an agitation.
