Revision of taxi fares being processed

GANGTOK, 08 June: Following the recent escalation in petrol prices, the taxi drivers association in the state had placed a demand with the Motor Vehicle Division [MVD] seeking revision in taxi fares. The MVD subsequently called the All Sikkim Taxi Drivers Association [ASTDA] to discuss the hike in taxi fares on 02 June. Both came to an agreement on the percentage hike which would neither set back the commuters by too much while also address the needs of taxi owners and drivers. The new rates are now being processed.
It is learnt that the taxi fare chart under revision will see a hike of 15% in jeep fares and upto 24% hike for all taxis using petrol. Sources inform that the revision of the fare chart of taxis is being prepared and soon the revised chart will be sent to the government for approval after which it will be notified.
Chung Chung Bhutia [President, Central Joint Action Committee of Local Taxi Drivers Association, Gangtok] informs that during the meeting, the MVD used a calculation which would not burden the commuters or the drivers and that this was accepted.
He added that the association had also requested the MVD, including the Transport Department, to appoint one officer of Food and Civil Supplies prior to the hike in fuel prices at every petrol pump to keep record of the old stock as well so that no loss is incurred by the drivers till the stock is cleared.
He also iterated that the revision made by the MVD would not be opposed at all as it has been carried out by holding discussion with the association and the drivers at large.