Mangaluru, Aug 1: Taxi and maxi-cab operators from Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts have announced a protest at Kavoor Junction in Mangaluru on August 4 (Wednesday), opposing the recent increase in charges for commercial vehicles at Mangaluru International Airport (MIA).

Addressing reporters on Saturday, Dakshina Kannada Taxi Men’s and Maxi Cab Association president Anand K alleged that the airport authorities had revised the charges “unscientifically” about a month ago. He said the fee for taxis was increased from Rs 100 to Rs 180, while the charge for maxi cabs was raised from Rs 200 to Rs 500.

Anand said the association had approached airport authorities, MPs and other officials seeking a review of the decision, but no changes had been made so far. The operators are demanding a rollback of the revised charges and modifications to the existing system for commercial vehicles operating at the airport.

Mangaluru International Airport, however, said the charges were based on approved tariffs and were not imposed selectively on any category of vehicle.

The airport authorities rejected claims that the charges were arbitrary or unlawful, stating that the pickup-and-drop policy follows a uniform published tariff applicable to all commercial four-wheelers, including taxis.

According to MIA, the system has been introduced to regulate traffic movement, reduce congestion, and ensure smoother vehicle operations at the terminal.

An MIA spokesperson said taxi and maxi-cab operators continue to be an important part of passenger transport services and clarified that the charges are collected for the use of airport infrastructure.