Punjab News Daily
Chandigarh, June 24

Punjab Finance and Transport Minister Harpal Singh Cheema on Wednesday directed officials to take immediate steps to address the concerns of minibus operators, including reviewing vehicle passing fees, strengthening enforcement against unauthorised vehicles and examining tax relief measures for the sector.

Chairing a meeting with representatives of the Punjab Mini Bus Operators Association at the Punjab Civil Secretariat here, Cheema said the state government was committed to safeguarding the livelihoods of self-employed transport operators while ensuring passenger safety and efficient public transport services.

The delegation submitted a memorandum highlighting various operational issues, including a sharp increase in vehicle passing fees and the growing presence of unregulated vehicles on designated mini bus routes.

Cheema assured the operators that the government would explore legal options to provide relief from the increased passing fees.

He also directed the Transport Department to take strict action against unauthorised vehicles, saying their operation affects the income of legitimate operators, disrupts scheduled services and raises safety concerns.

The minister acknowledged the financial burden faced by small transport operators due to rising costs of diesel, tyres and lubricants.

He instructed the finance and transport departments to examine existing tax structures and identify possible measures to provide relief to the sector.

The meeting also discussed administrative issues related to Regional Transport Offices (RTOs), including the practice of assigning additional responsibilities to Sub-Divisional Magistrates and Additional Deputy Commissioners.

Cheema directed officials to streamline postings, improve digital clearance systems and ensure timely processing of compliance-related approvals.

The meeting was attended by Transport Secretary Varun Roojam, State Transport Commissioner Parneet Shergill and Director Transport Rajiv Kumar Gupta.

Representing the Mini Bus Operators Association were Baldev Singh, Hardeep Singh, Harbans Singh Dhaliwal and Pardeep Kumar. With agencies input