Delegation meets AAI Chairman, demands taxi parking slot at Leh Airport

Delegation of Ladakh Taxi Operators Co-operative Society meeting with AAI Chairman.
Delegation of Ladakh Taxi Operators Co-operative Society meeting with AAI Chairman.

Excelsior Correspondent

NEW DELHI, Feb 28: A delegation from the Ladakh Taxi Operators Co-operative Society, led by Jamyang Tsering Namgyal, former Member of Parliament from Ladakh, met with Vipin Kumar, Chairman, Airport Authority of India (AAI) in Delhi, to discuss the urgent need for a reserved taxi parking area at Kushok Bakula Rinpoche (KBR) Airport, Leh.
The meeting was also attended by Radhika R, Deputy General Manager (Commercial), AAI. The delegation submitted a detailed memorandum highlighting key concerns.
During the meeting, the delegation underscored the importance of allocating a dedicated taxi parking area within the airport premises to ensure a well-organized and efficient transport system, especially during peak tourist seasons. They proposed 40 to 50 designated parking slots to accommodate the growing number of registered taxi operators in Ladakh. Additionally, they emphasized the economic significance of taxi services in the region, given Ladakh’s reliance on tourism and the need for smoother passenger mobility at the airport.
The delegation also sought official recognition of the Ladakh Taxi Operators Co-operative Society as the primary taxi association in the region, representing over 6,000 registered taxis operating on a rotational basis. They requested clarity on the process, availability, and any applicable charges for securing designated parking, ensuring that local taxi operators could function in an organized and sustainable manner.
Speaking at the meeting, Jamyang Tsering Namgyal reiterated that a dedicated taxi parking facility at KBR Airport would not only reduce congestion but also enhance passenger convenience and contribute to a more systematic transport network. He noted that a memorandum had previously been submitted to the Tourism Office and AAI officials in Leh, but the issue remained unresolved due to prolonged discussions. He urged AAI to expedite the resolution of this long-pending matter in the interest of both taxi operators and air passengers.
In response, the Airport Authority assured the delegation that the request would be reviewed and necessary steps would be taken to address their concerns.
The meeting was attended by Thinles Namgyal, President, All Ladakh Taxi Operators Co-operative Society, Leh; Ajaz Ahmad, Vice President, and Phunchok Angchok, Senior Executive Member.