Shillong, July 14: The Meghalaya Transport Department has begun consultations on a proposed State Mobility Aggregator App aimed at improving public transport services across the state. While the initiative seeks to modernise transport services, taxi and auto-rickshaw unions have raised concerns over its implementation and called for broader consultations before the app is rolled out.
A stakeholder consultation was held at the State Central Library, Shillong, on July 13, under the chairmanship of the Commissioner & Secretary, Transport Department.
The meeting was attended by East Khasi Hills Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal, ADC Shanbor Warjri, MCS, District Transport Officer (DTO) R. Hinge, Superintendent of Police (City) Dangsan Khyriem, MPS, and Superintendent of Police (Traffic) Haari Prasan M.R., IPS.
According to DTO R. Hinge, the consultation was organised following directions from the Assistant Commissioner of Transport to gather feedback from all stakeholders before the proposed Mobility Aggregator App is implemented.
Representatives from various transport organisations participated in the meeting, including the East Khasi Hills Local Taxi Welfare Association, Ka Synjuk ki Nongñiah Taxi Sor bad Khapsor, Hynniewtrep Tourist Taxi Association, All Khasi Meghalaya Tourist Taxi Association, Shillong City Bus Syndicate, Motphran Auto Rickshaw Owners’ and Drivers’ Association, as well as mobility aggregators such as JETS 24×7 Taxi, NE Ride Taxi, and Laiwani Taxi Aggregator.
The Transport Department encouraged all stakeholders to actively participate in the consultation process and provide constructive suggestions to ensure the proposed app enhances commuter convenience while promoting a more transparent, efficient and integrated public transport system.
Taxi and Auto Unions Express Reservations
Following the meeting, representatives of taxi and auto-rickshaw unions said they were not opposed to the use of technology but expressed concern over the manner in which the initiative is being introduced.
Speaking to reporters, union leaders urged the government to hold wider consultations with transport operators before making any final decision.
They pointed out that many drivers, particularly those unfamiliar with smartphones or digital platforms, could face difficulties using the application. Without adequate training and technical support, they warned, the app could negatively impact the livelihoods of drivers who depend on daily earnings.
The unions also expressed concern that increased reliance on app-based bookings could reduce business opportunities for drivers who are unable to adapt to digital platforms.
Another key issue raised was the lack of clarity regarding mandatory registration requirements, fare structures, service charges, data privacy safeguards and accountability in the event of technical or operational problems.
The transport bodies demanded that the Transport Department organise a comprehensive consultation involving all taxi, bus and auto-rickshaw associations before fully implementing the project. They also sought detailed information on the app’s objectives, operational framework and the benefits it would provide to drivers.
Meanwhile, the Transport Department maintained that the proposed State Mobility App is intended to make public transport more accessible, improve passenger safety through GPS tracking, and bring greater transparency and efficiency to the operation of commercial vehicles.
Officials said discussions with stakeholders are continuing and assured that the feedback received during the consultation process will be taken into consideration before the project is fully implemented.
