Mangaluru: Taxi and maxi-cab drivers from Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts will stage a protest at Kavoor Junction in Mangaluru on Aug 4 (Wednesday) against the recent increase in charges at Mangaluru International Airport (MIA).Addressing reporters Saturday, Dakshina Kannada Taxi Men’s and Maxi Cab Association president Anand K alleged that airport authorities had “unscientifically” revised the rates about a month ago. According to him, charges for taxis were raised from Rs 100 to Rs 180 and for maxi cabs from Rs 200 to Rs 500.
AI generated
Despite raising the issue with airport authorities, MPs and others and receiving assurances, no corrective action has been taken so far, he said.The association has called for a protest demanding a rollback of the revised charges and changes to the existing system governing commercial vehicles at the airport.MIA refutes allegationsMIA said it levies only approved tariffs and does not selectively impose charges on any category of vehicle. It rejected allegations that the charges were arbitrary or unlawful.The airport said its pickup-and-drop policy follows a uniform, published tariff applicable to all commercial four-wheelers, including taxis, and does not single out traditional taxi operators.According to MIA, the current system is aimed at regulating traffic flow, preventing congestion and ensuring smooth movement of vehicles at the terminal.An MIA spokesperson said traditional taxi and maxi-cab operators remain integral to passenger services and that the charges are only for the use of airport infrastructure.
