An alarming financial burden plaguing the transport sector has been brought to light by independent lawmaker Mahabir Pun. The parliamentarian expressed deep frustration toward previous administrations after learning about the exploitative costs imposed on ordinary drivers looking to operate taxis.
According to Pun, a harrowing conversation with a local taxi driver revealed the multi-layered financial extortion within the system. Purchasing a vehicle requires an initial investment ranging between 30 to 35 lakh rupees.
However, the financial drain does not stop at the vehicle purchase. Drivers are reportedly forced to pay an additional 15 lakh rupees just to secure a mandatory black license plate.
Pun pointed out that this extortion is fueled by an active collusion between corrupt syndicate operators and complicit government authorities who choose to remain silent. He labeled the demand for an extra 15 lakh rupees—coming right after a driver has already endured a 300 percent vehicle import tax—as a massive act of corruption.
Condemning the middlemen involved in this racket, the lawmaker demanded immediate systemic reforms. This exposure signals a growing pressure on the current administration to dismantle public transport cartels and protect the livelihoods of self-employed drivers.
