Those who oppose overstaying fee are unauthorised cab operators: BIAL MD and CEO

Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), which will implement a new lane separation system in the reception area in front of the airport’s two terminals on December 8, has defended its decision amid reports that taxi drivers were against the move.

BIAL Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Hari Marar on Thursday said the airport has the support of all stakeholders, including all nine licensed taxi operators.

“The only area where the experience at KIA is not so good is the kerbside. One of the reasons for this is that a lot of people operate in that area in an undisciplined manner. People come, they park their cars there for long periods of time. We always wanted to implement something like this (lane separation system), allowing people to freely come in, park, go out and load their bags. But they should not stay too long. They are free to stay for eight days. It will take months, but they have to continue beyond that, otherwise they will have to pay a fee,” said Mr. Marar.

According to BIAL, the airport will give all users free use of the zone for eight minutes, beyond which ₹150 will be charged for overstaying from 8 minutes to 13 minutes, and ₹300 will be charged for overstaying from 13 minutes to 18 minutes. Vehicles lingering for more than 18 minutes will be towed to the nearest police station and applicable fines and towing fees will be charged.

Mr Marar said taxi drivers who are legally authorized to operate would not oppose the new rules.

“This question is being raised by those who are not operating legally. We have support from every stakeholder that this is the right move and we have nine licensed taxi operators and they support us,” he said.