By TC News Desk
Agartala, 25th December 2024: Auto drivers have staged a protest at the Kumari Tila BT College grounds today, raising allegations of illegal permits being issued for auto services on the GB Bazar to Banikya Chowmuhani route. They claim that auto-rickshaws from panchayat areas are providing passenger services within the Agartala Municipal Corporation area without proper permits, causing a severe disruption to their livelihood.
Auto driver Babul Mia expressed his frustration, stating, “The transport department has halted issuing permits for auto services within the Agartala Municipal Corporation area. Yet, they are illegally granting permits to autos from panchayat areas to operate on the GB Bazar to Banikya Chowmuhani road.” When approached for comments, the transport department confirmed that they were issuing permits within the Agartala Municipal Corporation area.
The protesting drivers blamed both the transport department and traffic personnel for negligence in their duties, which has led to the current situation. “Their negligence is jeopardizing our livelihoods. If this issue is not resolved promptly by the transport department, we will have no choice but to resort to larger protests in the future,” Mia warned.
The drivers emphasized the urgent need for action to ensure fair permit issuance and to protect their means of income. “Our families are struggling because of this. The authorities must address this problem immediately,” another protester added.
The protest highlights the ongoing tension between local auto drivers and the transport department over permit allocations. The drivers’ demands for justice and fair treatment remain unaddressed, and the potential for larger movements looms if their concerns are not resolved.
