SHILLONG: Mawkhar Constituency MLA, Adelbert Nongrum, today met with Deputy Chief Minister and Transport Minister, Sniawbhalang Dhar, to voice his “strong concern” over the protracted delay in granting operational approval to the local bike taxi service Jets 24×7 and the unchecked proliferation of illegal, non-state aggregators.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Nongrum confirmed he submitted a memorandum highlighting the unlawful operation of companies running two-wheeler taxis (bike taxis) without the required license, a clear violation of the Meghalaya Taxi Aggregator Operational Rules, 2020. His primary concern also targeted the State Government’s eleven-month delay in permitting Jets 24×7 to launch its services.
‘Unacceptable’ Delay for Local Entrepreneurship
The MLA expressed his “dismay” that despite Jets 24×7 having fulfilled all mandatory conditions, the company has been left waiting for over 11 months without any communication from the government regarding its approval.
“I am deeply concerned not only about the lack of action against companies operating illegal bike taxis but also about the inconsistent and inappropriate functioning of the Regional Transport Authority (RTA),” Bah Adelbert asserted. “Jets 24×7 has completed all the required formalities, yet it has not received approval to start operations for over 11 months. This action by the Transport Department is unacceptable.”
Criticises Department for ‘Ignoring’ Violations
Bah Nongrum also severely criticised the Transport Department for seemingly ignoring outside-state companies that operate without a license, which is a flagrant breach of the 2020 operational rules.
“Why is the department allowing such public violations while delaying the approval of a company belonging to the State?” he questioned, adding that this inconsistent approach “will encourage illegal activities and poses real dangers to commuters.”
He stressed that this prolonged delay “not only disheartens legitimate entrepreneurship but also endangers the livelihoods of many unemployed youths who have enthusiastically committed themselves to this platform.”
The MLA concluded by emphasising the Government’s duty to actively promote and support legitimate local business ventures, rather than discouraging them through slow and inconsistent decision-making. “I want to see your immediate action for the welfare of our youth because the Government should be one that encourages, not one that disheartens,” he stated, calling for a clear message that governance based on honest and clean procedures remains paramount.
