By Dr. Dinesh
Sri Vijaya Puram, Sep 24: At Veer Savarkar International Airport, Srivijayapuram, daily friction between private cab drivers and airport authorities continues to create unpleasant and embarrassing scenes. The disputes revolve around parking fees, rights over passenger pickups, and the simmering tussle between mainland WTI cabs and local drivers, many of whom are burdened with loans taken to purchase their vehicles.
For the local drivers, this is not merely about territory, it is about livelihood and survival. On the other side, airport officials, often accused of arrogance and rigidity, insist they are upholding order, regulation, and smooth passenger movement. But in reality, ego clashes often outweigh practical solutions, turning solvable issues into needless spectacles.
The irony cannot be missed, not a single international flight operates from Veer Savarkar International Airport at present, yet the daily quarrels routinely go “international” via social media, with videos and posts spreading far beyond the islands. This only damages the airport’s image further.
With World Tourism Day approaching on 27th September, a day that emphasizes socio-economic growth, responsible tourism, and inclusive development, such chaotic scenes send out the wrong message. Instead of showcasing the islands as a responsible and welcoming destination, the airport projects disorder and indifference.
What the situation demands is dialogue, empathy, and uniform rules, just as mainland airports follow. Transparent parking regulations, a fair mechanism for cab allotment, and clarity on policies, such as the controversial restrictions on EVs, could defuse the tension overnight.
Political leaders have already tried to mediate, searching for a middle path, but with little success. It is now clear that the matter can no longer be left to ego battles at the local level.
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) must intervene immediately. Without their oversight, this small island airport will remain a stage for daily quarrels, an embarrassing gateway where conflict, not order, greets passengers.
