Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru

Mangaluru, Dec 8: Members of the Dakshina Kannada Taximen and Maxicab Association intercepted two private cars allegedly operating illegal rental services at Kankanady Railway Station on Monday. The vehicles, booked via the online platform Zoomcar from Bengaluru to pick up tourists, were subsequently handed over to RTO officials following police intervention.

According to the association, questioning the drivers revealed that the cars were being used for commercial rental purposes, in violation of transport regulations. The association immediately informed the RTO, but officers reportedly stated they lacked sufficient staff to reach the location and advised filing a complaint with the police.

Following this, association members contacted 112, after which police personnel arrived at the scene. The cars, along with the tourists, were taken to the station for inquiry. Association office-bearers alleged that when they attempted to lodge a written complaint, the duty officer did not respond adequately.

Later, the association’s honorary president, Dinesh Kumpala, visited the station and explained the situation to officials, urging them to protect the rights of registered taxi drivers. Subsequently, RTO officials were called to the station, and the two vehicles were handed over. The RTO assured that the cars would be seized and penalised in accordance with the law, while arrangements were made for the tourists to continue their journey.

Association vice-presidents Harish Shetty Kuttaru, Harishchandra, and other members were present during the operation.

Speaking on the issue, the association reiterated that their fight against illegal rental operations by private cars has been ongoing. They claimed that, despite repeated appeals to authorities, no adequate action has been taken, and departments often fail to act even when such vehicles are presented to them. They also alleged that pressure is sometimes exerted on the union itself.

The association warned that if such incidents continue and authorities fail to take stringent action, they may be compelled to launch intense protests in the coming days.