The new government in Kerala may need to take strong measures against the high-handedness of autorickshaw and taxi unions, which is negatively impacting the tourist experience in Kovalam. On May 3, an app-based cab driver was attacked by local taxi operators when he dropped off tourists at Kovalam beach. A case was registered against four local drivers. However, police action does not appear to be a deterrent, as unionized taxi drivers continue to threaten app cab drivers for picking up and dropping off tourists in the area.
Previous Government Inaction
Despite numerous complaints from tourists and representations from tour operators and the hospitality industry, the previous state government failed to take action against the local taxi drivers. The Trivandrum Chamber of Commerce and Industry (TCCI) is now calling for stringent measures to protect the state's reputation as a safe, progressive, and business-friendly destination.
Strong Condemnation from TCCI
TCCI President S N Raghuchandran Nair stated, "We urge the government and the Director General of Police to take stringent action against the culprits, ensure protection for all legally operating service providers, and implement effective preventive measures to prevent recurrence." He further added, "We strongly condemn the reported assault on an Uber taxi driver in Kovalam by local taxi operators for lawfully operating an online taxi service. Such acts of violence, intimidation, and unlawful obstruction constitute a serious violation of law, free trade, consumer choice, and public order. Incidents of this nature in a prominent tourism and commercial destination are deeply concerning."
Cartel Mentality Prevails
Six months ago, the Kovalam Beach Auto/Taxi All Combination Group put up a notice stating that "online vehicles such as Uber/Ola etc are not allowed to take trips from the stand premises," indicating a preference for operating as a cartel rather than adapting to changing times. Now, local taxi drivers have resumed harassing tourists who attempt to book app-based cabs, especially during the summer holidays when a large number of domestic tourists visit the destination.
