MPHAL, Aug 23: The United Committee Manipur has warned the transporters association presently putting their services at hold demanding increase in fares. A press release by UCM Publicity secretary Kh.Nilamani Kha Nganba stated that an agreement was made between the UCM and the transport organisations that the hike of fare will come down to normal after the 18th of August.
It is unfortunate that the transporters have not kept their end of the agreement and the UCM views the actions of the transport associations as against the interest of the general public.
The release stated that it is illegal for the transporters or the civil organisations alike to fix the fares of the autos, and the UCM acknowledges that nor it has the authority.
It is unfortunate that the auto association is resorting to violence as a means to achieve their ends and have further intimidated the Magic, Winger and Sumo Association to cease plying. Those who want to give their services should not be threatened, the release said.
Further, the statement mentioned that the incident in which several drivers were manhandled including driver of Magic Tata MN0IW/5799, Thoiba by Chairenthong Auto Assocition. on the 21st of this month, vandalising an auto MNOIW/2653 at Kangla Lamkhai and snatching the keys and detaining Tata Magic 4377 belonging to Akoijam Bobby at RIMS gate today as unfortunate and the losses incurred should be borne by the concerned transport society responsible for causing the damage.
The release stated that the agreement between the UCM and the Transporters reached after three conclusive meetings should be honored by the striking association and all unwanted activities ceased immediately.
To address the woes faced by the transporters, the UCM had also offered to hold a meeting with the concerned transport director and officials on the 24th of this month.
The release further stated that the striking transporters should stop the strike and begin their service in the interest of the people.
