Top News

Rajkumar Choudhary
Gaggal (Kangra)

The ongoing expansion of Gaggal Airport has not only disrupted the lives of shopkeepers and homeowners but has also left local three-wheeler pickup drivers facing job losses. On Saturday, these drivers convened with the Deputy Commissioner of Kangra to present a memorandum requesting assistance.

The drivers articulated that their vehicles were mainly utilized for transporting construction materials such as iron rods and cement from the Gaggal market. However, with the displacement of these shops due to the airport's development, their operations have come to a standstill. Many drivers had financed their vehicles through loans ranging from ₹5 to ₹10 lakh, and without any income, they are struggling to meet their bank obligations, putting immense pressure on their families.

They are advocating for their vehicles to be prioritized for transporting materials related to the airport construction to help maintain their livelihoods. In the absence of this opportunity, they are calling on the administration to provide a monthly unemployment allowance or compensation for business losses until they can be permanently rehabilitated.

Moreover, the drivers highlighted that while shopkeepers and property owners are receiving compensation, the local loading vehicle operators have been overlooked. They are urging the government to incorporate them into the rehabilitation strategy, emphasizing that their survival hinges on equitable treatment and support.