MNF urges ZPM to suspend online taxi application

Aizawl: Mizoram’s main opposition, the Mizo National Front (MNF), on Saturday urged the Zoram People’s Movement (ZPM) govt to suspend the proposed implementation of the Mizo taxi online application, alleging it will impose an additional financial burden on commuters and taxi operators, and act as a new mechanism for tax collection.In a press statement, the MNF said the move has been strongly opposed by the Mizoram Taxi Association (MTA), the Aizawl Two Wheeler Taxi Association (ATTA) and the Aizawl District Auto Rickshaw Owners Association (ADAROA). The party said the associations consider the system unsafe and unacceptable, with drivers unwilling to be turned into “tax collectors” for the govt, and claimed talks between the unions and the transport minister produced no meaningful outcome.MNF alleged operators must pay a Rs 500 registration fee and that operators and passengers will face an additional six to 10% charge on every app-booked trip. It questioned the legal framework for collecting the charges, saying the govt has not clearly explained the mechanism.MNF said the levy, even if termed a “platform fee,” will be a fresh burden, criticised engaging a private operator, and flagged limited smartphone and use of online payment mode. It backed MTA, ATTA and ADAROA action against the app and cautioned against comparing Mizoram’s hilly conditions with Delhi or other metros.