Pernem: Taxi operators continued to protest on day three against the government’s delay in providing local taximen with a counter at the Manohar International Airport (MIA).
Meanwhile, Section 144 has been imposed around the MIA and nearby villages for two months in view of a threat by taxi-men regarding blocking the traffic.
Taximen protesting under the banner ‘Together for Mopa Airport’ began their agitation from May 1 at Nagzar and had given a 24-hr ultimatum to the government to fulfil their demands.
The taxi operators were furious over the fact that the authorities were suppressing their peaceful democratic protest.
“Locals during the public hearing had backed the airport project and now they have to take to the streets to fight for their rights,” said ex- ZP member Dipak Kalangutkar.
“Many meetings were held by Chief Minister and Pernem MLA Pravin Arlekar have not borne fruits. Why are local taximen not given their rightful taxi stand yet? CM should not test our patience,” said Adv Jitendra Gaonkar.
