Agartala, 1st October 2026 : The Tripura Transport Department has initiated strict action following allegations of passenger harassment and obstruction of app-based Uber auto-rickshaw services at Maharaja Bir Bikram (MBB) Airport in Agartala on the night of September 30.
According to the department, passengers were allegedly prevented from using the authorised app-based transport service, which was formally launched at the airport on September 3 under the initiative of the Transport Department.
The government said such incidents undermine its efforts to establish a safe, transparent and passenger-friendly transport system. It reiterated that no individual, association, syndicate or transport group has the authority to prevent passengers from choosing a legitimate transport service.
Following the incident, police at Airport Police Station arrested two persons and are questioning them. A joint team of officials from the Transport and Police departments also visited MBB Airport and the Airport Police Station to assess the situation and review the action taken.
Police have indicated that legal proceedings will be initiated against those found involved. The Transport Department has also ordered suspension of the driving licences and vehicle registrations of the accused auto-rickshaw drivers or vehicle owners, subject to due legal procedure.
The department said it would follow a “zero tolerance” policy towards passenger harassment, intimidation of drivers, obstruction of vehicles, prevention of passengers from boarding authorised services or disruption of legitimate transport operations.
The government is promoting app-based cab and auto services at MBB Airport to provide passengers with greater choice. It stressed that travellers must be able to select their preferred authorised mode of transport without fear, threats or interference.
The Transport Department has also urged transport service providers and drivers’ associations to maintain discipline and cooperate with the administration. Officials have been directed to closely monitor the airport transport system to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The department reiterated that protecting the safety, dignity and freedom of choice of passengers, while ensuring the unhindered operation of legitimate transport services, remains a priority.
