Reported by Henry L Khojol
Aizwal: Three transport bodies in Mizoram have opposed the state government’s decision to make the newly introduced MizoTaxi mobile application compulsory for passenger transport operators, just days after the platform was launched to streamline fare payments and curb overcharging.
In a joint statement issued on Monday, the Mizoram Taxi Association (MTA), Aizawl Two Wheeler Taxi Association (ATTA) and Aizawl District Auto-Rickshaw Owners Association (ADAROA) said a meeting held on Saturday concluded that the government’s directive mandating the use of the Mizo Taxi Online platform was unacceptable to transport operators.
The associations stated that they would formally request the government to reconsider and revoke the decision. They also advised their members not to download, register, or use the application until further discussions are held with the authorities.
According to the organisations, transport operators have repeatedly raised concerns over the additional financial burden imposed by the mandatory registration fees required to continue their services under the new system.
The MizoTaxi app, announced by the State Transport Authority (STA), is scheduled to be introduced in Aizawl from July 1. The platform aims to provide passengers with a transparent fare system by allowing them to verify government-approved rates for taxis, two-wheeler taxis and auto-rickshaws.
As per an STA notification issued on May 29, all passenger transport vehicles operating within Aizawl have been instructed to complete registration on the platform during June. Registration facilities have been set up at the MizoTaxi office located beneath the District Transport Officer (L.A.) office at the Transport Complex in Chaltlang.
Operators who register before the end of June will be required to pay a discounted annual fee of Rs 600. However, those registering after the deadline will have to pay Rs 1,000 per year.