Port Blair, May 16: Mr. K. Selvam, the President of the Tourist Vehicle Owners Association, has requested the Director of the Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS) under the Andaman & Nicobar Administration to permit tourist cab and commercial taxi operators to embark on the Chatham – Bambooflat-Chatham sector vehicle ferries during morning and evening hours. The exclusion of these operators during peak times has led to inconveniences for both tourists and drivers alike.
During the peak hours of 07:30 Hrs. to 09:45 Hrs. in the morning and 17:00 Hrs. to 18:45 Hrs. in the evening, tourist cab drivers are prohibited from boarding the DSS-operated vehicle ferries, resulting in significant waiting times and rushed tours for visitors. The situation is particularly troublesome for tourists planning to visit the renowned Mt. Manipur National Park, formerly known as Mt. Harriet, during these hours. Long waiting hours and the need to return to Port Blair promptly have led to dissatisfaction among tourists who are unable to enjoy their excursions fully.
Moreover, the restriction poses challenges for many drivers who reside in Bambooflat, as they rely on these vehicle ferries for personal transportation, including critical medical emergencies. By extending the embarkation and movement permissions to tourist cab and commercial taxi operators during the specified morning and evening hours, drivers will have greater flexibility and accessibility, ensuring smoother journeys for all.
Mr. K. Selvam urges the Director to direct the authorities to review the existing time constraints and allow tourist cab and commercial taxi operators to board the vehicle ferries during peak hours. He mentioned that the inclusion of these operators will not only enhance the tourist experience but also address the needs of drivers who depend on the ferries for personal use. The request seeks to foster a more seamless and satisfactory transportation system for both tourists and operators.
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