Taxi operators in Ludhiana have set fares between Rs 1,200 and Rs 3,000 for rides to Halwara International Airport, triggering widespread criticism from residents who deem the prices excessive. The cost of a flight from Halwara to Delhi is around Rs 4,000, making the taxi fare proportionally high for short-distance travel.
Fixed fare structure and ban on e-hailing services
According to the fare structure announced by taxi operators, a small car will cost Rs 1,200, a Maruti Suzuki Ertiga-size vehicle Rs 2,200, and a Toyota Innova Crysta or equivalent will be charged at Rs 3,000. Operators have also declared that e-hailing services such as Ola, Uber, and Rapido will not be allowed to operate cabs to the airport. In a Facebook video, they appealed to drivers to reject bookings from these platforms, claiming the move is necessary to protect their profession.
Taxi operators from Sudhar, Halwara, and Ludhiana will run services on the route from Ludhiana to Halwara and back, as per their announcement.
Residents voice concerns over affordability
Reena, a homemaker, questioned the high prices, stating, "Who would book taxis? In fact, most travellers going from Ludhiana to Halwara take their own cars and drivers as they are business class and traders. But, for students, senior citizens, those who don't have a car or someone who has come from outside, these fares are very expensive."
The steep fares have drawn sharp criticism from residents, who argue that the rates are unaffordable for many, including students and senior citizens who rely on public transport.
Airport and government response
Jagir Singh, director of Halwara International Airport, said the matter is outside their jurisdiction, adding, "The fare and other things are decided by the state government. It has to take a call on the matter." Varun Roojam, Administrative Secretary of the Transport Department, stated that they will intervene if the need arises. "The rates need to be fixed in a genuine way," he said.
The transport department's remarks suggest that the current fares may be reviewed to ensure they are reasonable and not exploitative.
