The Tripura Transport Department has condemned the alleged harassment of air passengers and obstruction of an app-based Uber auto-rickshaw at Maharaja Bir Bikram (MBB) Airport here on September 30, and said legal action would be taken against those found responsible.

According to a statement issued by the department, passengers were allegedly prevented from using an authorised app-based transport service at the airport. The service was formally inaugurated on September 3 in the presence of the Transport Minister, with instructions that no individual, group or transport operator should obstruct its operation or harass passengers.

The department said no syndicate, association, group or individual had the right to take the law into their own hands or prevent passengers from choosing lawful transportation.

“Intimidating drivers, obstructing vehicles, preventing passengers from boarding or disrupting lawful services will be dealt with strictly in accordance with law,” it said.

Two persons were arrested by the Airport Police Station after the matter was brought to the authorities’ notice, and their interrogation was underway, the department said.

A senior-level joint team from the Transport and Police departments visited MBB Airport, the site of the incident and the Airport Police Station to ascertain the facts and review the action taken.

The police authority has stated that legal action would follow, while the Transport Department has directed that the driving licence and registration of the auto driver or owner allegedly involved be suspended, subject to due process of law.

The department said the government was promoting technology-enabled and choice-based transport services, including app-based cab and auto services at MBB Airport, and that passengers should be free to choose lawful modes of transport without intimidation or interference.

It also said it would not permit any unauthorised monopoly over airport passenger transport and appealed to operators and driver associations to maintain discipline and cooperate with the authorities.

Concerned officials have been directed to monitor the situation and take steps to prevent a recurrence, the statement said.

The department reiterated its commitment to protecting passengers’ rights, safety and dignity and ensuring that lawful transport services operate without obstruction.