By Our Reporter
SHILLONG, June 8: Authorities have responded to ongoing difficulties faced by people with disabilities in availing concession fares on public transport. The move comes after advocacy groups raised the issue during an open house meeting with Director General of Police Idashisha Nongrang, last Thursday.
In a bid to enforce the concession fare policy, the Commissioner of Transport, RP Marak, has issued a directive mandating strict adherence by all commercial passenger vehicle operators. The notification specifies that individuals with disabilities are entitled to a fare reduction of 50% on public transport, including buses, taxis, and other commercial passenger vehicles.
To ensure widespread compliance, the notification also requires transport operators to inform relevant associations — such as Bus Associations, Sumo or Maxi Cab Associations, Taxi Drivers Associations, and School Principals—about the policy. This measure aims to enhance awareness and ensure that the concession fares are effectively implemented across all districts.
The intervention by the Commissioner of Transport reflects a commitment to improving accessibility and support for people with disabilities in Meghalaya. As authorities enforce these measures, it is expected that the concession fare policy will be more uniformly applied, providing much-needed relief to individuals who rely on public transportation.