Implement Hakim report or face stir: taxi union

Taxi unions have now threatened to protest if the Hakim committee report is not implemented before September 15.

Taxi unions have now threatened to protest if the Hakim committee report is not implemented before September 15.

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The one-man panel appointed by state government has recommended Rs. 3 fare hike for both taxis and autos. Other incentives, such as 5% extra night charges, annual revision of fare have also been recommended.

"The report was submitted to the government on July 27, then why was there a delay in disclosing it? Now the process needs to be expedited and the recommendations should be enforced," said AL Quadros, leader, Mumbai Taximen's Union, adding that they will protest if their demands were not met.

Quadros has the support of the Mumbai Rickshawmen's Union president, Thampi Kurien. "We will join them, if needed. The committee has recommended a fare hike after studying all components. There is no scope for much change," he said.

However, Mumbai Grahak Panchayat chairperson Shirish Deshpande has requested for more time to study the report.

Deshpande said the committee had deviated from the terms of reference. "By recommending tariff for 1.5km, night charges and annual revision the committee has bypassed its limit. We have requested authorities not to implement the report," he said.