Taxi unions form panel to oppose issuing of permits to fleet taxis

To oppose the state government’s decision to release permits to fleet taxi companies despite the reduction in the number of black-and-yellow taxis, taxi unions have formed an action committee.

To oppose the state government’s decision to release permits to fleet taxi companies despite the reduction in the number of black-and-yellow taxis, taxi unions have formed an action committee.

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In its first meeting held at the Mumbai Taxi Association’s office on Wednesday, the committee decided to pursue the demand of revision of deadline for renewal of permits from six months to two years.

Representatives of the Mumbai Taximen’s Union, Mumbai Taxi Association, Taxi Chalak Malak Sena, Swabhiman Taxi and Rickshaw Union and Bharatiya Taxi Chalak Mahasangh attended the meeting.

AL Quadros, leader of Mumbai Taximen’s union, said, “We will oppose the state government’s plan of allotting more taxi permits to fleet taxi companies.”

Rao said that the number of black-and-yellow taxis is now less than 40,000, making it difficult for passengers to find a vehicle during peak hours.

Contrary to a media report, a senior transport department official said that they don’t have any new plan of releasing permits to fleet taxi companies.

The committee will also pursue other demands such as re-erection of missing taxi stands, allowing taxi drivers to collect smart-card driving licences directly from the RTO and allowing small size luggage to be carried in taxis.

“All major unions have come together to safeguard the interests of taxi drivers and permit holders,” said Nilesh Chavan of Taxi Chalak Malak Sena.

“If they fail to address our demands, the committee will meet again and decide the future course of action,” said DA Salian, leader of Mumbai Taxi Association.