Staff Correspondent
SHILLONG, Feb 9: Not satisfied with the reduction of the Rs 2-cess on petrol and diesel, agitating members of associations of drivers-owners of commercial vehicles in Meghalaya have demanded greater relief from the State Government in this regard. They also threatened to intensify their stir in the event of non-fulfilment of their demand.
Associations of these taxi operators under the banner of the Meghalaya Joint Action Committee of Commercial Vehicles (MJACCV) today held a sit-in demonstration here and demanded further reduction in petrol and diesel prices.
Commercial vehicles have been off the roads in Meghalaya since February 3. Operators of these vehicles have been demanding revision of fares in view of the steep hike in petroleum products.
The organisations of drivers and owners, however, maintained that they are now against increase in fares as it would affect passengers, especially those belonging to economically weaker sections of the society. The organisations said that the State Government can instead reduce fuel prices, other vehicle taxes and the COVID-19 cess.
MJACCV chairman Wandonbok Jyrwa said the increase in fuel prices has not only affected the livelihood of vehicle owners and drivers, but also the entire society.
Due to such hikes, people living in rural areas have not been able to bring their ailing family members to urban areas for treatment. Prices of vegetables and other essential commodities in the State capital have also skyrocketed, the taxi operators contended.
