Dissatisfaction among commutters over hike in fuel prices

Shillong, Jun 7 (UNI) Commuters are having a tough time to reach to their destinations in this capital city of Meghalaya and suburbs over excess taxi and auto fares.

Taxi and Auto drivers were allegedly charging double fares from the commuters soon after the recent hikes in petroleum products by the Centre.

A state government official here today said the government understands the problem of overcharging passengers since it had a direct impact on the common man and businesses in general as well.

''The state government, on the other hand, is maintaining a watch so that prices of essential commodities does not go beyond the reach of the common man,'' he added.

The state government is yet to take any final decision on slashing of sales tax on petroleum products in view of the recent hike.

A meeting was held by the Taxation Minister J A Lyngdoh with officials of finance and taxation departments regarding the reduction of sales tax on the petroleum products.

However, the meeting ended inconclusively, the official said and added that the departments will study the future impact on government funds and how it could be dealt with in case of slashing of sales tax.

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