Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)

Udupi, Jul 22: The Udupi District Taximen's and Maxicab Association will stage a protest against the mandatory installation of panic buttons at the DC office, Manipal, on Tuesday, July 23.

Addressing the media on Monday, July 22, association secretary Ramesh Kotian stated, "The central government has fixed the price of this unscientific device at Rs 7,550, but in the state, they are charging Rs 13,000 to Rs 15,000 for its installation. This is an unacceptable crime committed against all state transport vehicle drivers and owners. According to the state transport minister's order, until September 2024, vehicles can obtain FC without GPS and panic buttons. However, the toll department officials have ignored the minister's order and have already made FC mandatory."

Kotian also raised concerns over the unequal treatment of tourist vehicles, arguing that while these regulations apply to them, similar rules are not enforced on privately rented white-board vehicles. He questioned the rationale behind singling out tourist vehicles for such stringent measures when misdemeanors and crimes can also occur in private vehicles.

The massive protest is organized under the leadership of Raghupati Bhat. All tourist vehicle drivers and owners in the district will be participating in the protest.

Sathish Nayak Santhekatte, vice president of the District Taximen's and Maxicab Association, along with Raghavendra, vice president, Prakash Adiga, treasurer, Krishna Kotian, vice treasurer, Vikram, coordinator, Sharath Kumar, secretary of the Malpe Unit, and others were present at the press meet.