Bhopal taxi drivers launch protest to highlight grievances and demand reforms

BHOPAL: On Monday, taxi drivers in Bhopal launched a protest to address their grievances. While organisers anticipated 2,500 participants, only about 500 drivers actually joined the protest, causing inconvenience to travellers at the railway station, airport, and bus stand."Passengers going from the station and bus stand are charged double the fare. There are many two-wheeler and four-wheeler drivers who are driving without a licence in the name of a taxi," taxi driver Ashok alleged. E-rickshaws and auto-rickshaws filled the transport void but reportedly charged excessive fares.Around 250 taxis assembled at Ambedkar Jayanti Park by noon. Union representatives launched their demonstration from 11 am to 5 pm to communicate their concerns to officials.The absence of taxis at primary transport hubs resulted in increased travel costs for passengers. Officials did not take action to regulate fares or prevent overcharging practices.National Secretary Nafeesuddin confirmed receiving police permission for peaceful demonstrations, noting that the protest addressed ongoing issues faced by taxi operators.The union's primary demands include:- Stopping unofficial collections at railway stations- Providing adequate parking at transport centres- Controlling private taxi services at airports- Stopping unlicensed two-wheeler taxi operations- Enforcing govt-approved rates for app-based services- Addressing fitness testing equipment concerns- Creating clear panic button pricing structures- Obtaining permanent office space