Sri Vijaya Puram, Feb 23: Mr.Rakeshwar Lall, State President of Hindu Rashtra Shakti, has submitted a formal representation to the Lieutenant Governor of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Admiral D K Joshi, proposing the implementation of Bharat Taxi in the Union Territory.
The proposal highlights the need for a cooperative-based, technology-enabled taxi platform aligned with the Government of India’s policy of strengthening the cooperative sector in emerging service industries. Bharat Taxi operates on cooperative principles, treating drivers as members and stakeholders, promoting equitable income sharing, and minimizing high aggregator commissions. This model aims to improve driver livelihoods while ensuring transparent and regulated fares for passengers.
The representation notes that passengers arriving at Veer Savarkar International Airport in Port Blair currently face limited transport options. Concerns have been raised regarding the prevailing minimum fare of approximately Rs. 400 for short distances of one to five kilometres, which places a financial burden on tourists, local residents, and visiting officials. The situation, it is stated, creates a perception of monopolistic conditions at a key public entry point to the Islands.
The introduction of Bharat Taxi is expected to promote fair competition, enhance service transparency, provide structured livelihood opportunities for local drivers under a cooperative framework, and strengthen tourist confidence in the Islands’ transport system.
The representation urges the Administration to examine the feasibility of implementing the platform at the earliest, in coordination with local transport authorities, cooperative societies, and the tourism department. It further suggests initiating the service on a pilot basis in Port Blair with appropriate regulatory oversight.
Mr.Rakeshwar Lall expressed hope that the Administration will take necessary action in the larger public interest and inform the island community about the outcome of the proposal.
