‘The Aryavarth Express
Agency (Sikkim): In an effort to prevent overcharging by tour operators, the Sikkim government has established fixed taxi fares for trips between Nathula and Gangtok. According to an order issued by Principal Secretary C S Rao from the Tourism & Civil Aviation Department, the round trip fare has been set at Rs 7,000 for luxury vehicles and Rs 6,500 for normal vehicles, inclusive of permit charges. This new fare structure is effective immediately.
The Tourism and Civil Aviation Department has also provided contact numbers for visitors to report any issues related to excess fare charges. Aggrieved visitors can reach the Tourism & Civil Aviation Department at 9434182178, the Police Check Post at 7908081127, and the Transport Department at 9434126851.
The order clearly states that any violation of the fixed rates will be strictly dealt with under the relevant provisions of the Central Motor Vehicle Act 1988, CMV Rules 1989, and Sikkim Motor Vehicles Rules 1991 by the Transport Department.
Additionally, the number of permits for Nathula trips has been capped at 800 vehicles up to June 30. This decision followed a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Secretary V B Pathak, attended by DGP A K Singh, and officials from the Home, Tourism and Civil Aviation, and Transport Departments.
This action comes after the central government criticized the state government for the exorbitant taxi fares and travel permits being charged by tour operators from tourists visiting Sikkim.
