App-Based Auto Service Launched, Yet Passenger Harassment Continues, Tripura Transport Department Warns Auto Drivers Again
By Our Correspondent
Agartala, October 2, 2026
Despite the formal launch of app-based auto-rickshaw services at Maharaja Bir Bikram (MBB) Airport on September 3, allegations of harassment of passengers and obstruction of app-based vehicles have continued, prompting the Transport Department of the Government of Tripura to issue another stern warning to auto-rickshaw drivers and operators.
The latest incident was reportedly reported at MBB Airport on the night of September 30, when passengers allegedly faced harassment after choosing an authorised app-based Uber auto-rickshaw service. The Transport Department has strongly condemned the incident and warned that no auto driver, association, syndicate or group has the right to interfere with a passenger’s choice of lawful transportation.
The app-based transport service was formally inaugurated on September 3, 2026, in the presence of the Transport Minister Sushanta Chowdhury, with the government making it clear that passengers would be free to use authorised app-based cab and auto services.
However, according to the Transport Department, the latest incident indicates that attempts to obstruct such services and influence passengers' choice of transportation have continued.
The department has once again cautioned auto drivers and operators against harassing passengers, intimidating app-based drivers, preventing passengers from boarding authorised vehicles or obstructing vehicles operating legally.
The government has made it clear that no transport syndicate, association, group or individual can take the law into their own hands or create an unauthorised monopoly over airport passenger transportation.
The department warned that any person found intimidating passengers or drivers, obstructing lawful transport services or interfering with passenger choice would face action under the law.
Following the latest incident, two persons were arrested by Airport Police Station, and their interrogation was underway.
A senior-level joint team from the Transport and Police Departments subsequently visited MBB Airport, the reported incident site and the Airport Police Station to assess the situation and review the action taken by the authorities.
The police have indicated that further legal action will follow based on the investigation.
The Transport Department has also directed that the driving licence and registration of the auto driver/owner allegedly involved in the incident be suspended, subject to due process of law.
The action indicates that the government intends to address the issue not only through criminal proceedings but also through regulatory measures against operators found violating transport rules.
The Transport Department reiterated that passengers arriving at or departing from MBB Airport must be able to select their preferred lawful mode of transportation without fear, pressure or intimidation.
The government said it is promoting technology-enabled and transparent transportation services to provide passengers with greater choice and convenience.
The department has particularly stressed that the introduction of app-based auto and cab services should not result in confrontation with existing operators, but rather provide passengers with additional lawful transportation options.
The latest statement represents another warning to auto drivers and associations following the September 3 launch of the app-based service.
The Transport Department has appealed to all auto-rickshaw drivers and transport associations to cooperate with the administration, maintain discipline and refrain from any action that could inconvenience or intimidate passengers.
Officials have also been directed to closely monitor the situation at MBB Airport and take preventive measures to ensure that similar incidents do not recur.
The government reiterated that passenger safety, dignity and freedom of choice will remain paramount, and that all authorised transport services must be allowed to operate without obstruction or intimidation.
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