The Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport, Chandigarh International Airport Limited (CHIAL) has issued a strict warning to cab operators after receiving multiple complaints of overcharging passengers in the name of parking fees.
Authorities confirmed that some cab drivers were demanding Rs 250–300 extra as “parking charges” from passengers at airport terminal gates — a fee that does not exist.
No Extra Parking Fee at Chandigarh Airport: CHIAL Clarification
CHIAL CEO Ajay Kumar addressed the issue in the Airport Advisory Council meeting, stressing that:
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First 10 minutes of pick-up and drop-off are free.
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Only nominal official charges apply beyond the free period.
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No additional parking fee is collected by the airport.
“If cab operators are found fleecing passengers, strict action will be taken. Passengers can file complaints on helpline numbers displayed at airport parking areas,” Kumar said.
Police Crackdown on Overcharging Cabs
Following CHIAL’s complaint, both Chandigarh and Mohali police have begun random checks at the airport.
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SSP Mohali Harmandeep Singh Hans confirmed that cab drivers found overcharging will be fined immediately.
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The airport police station has been directed to monitor cab operations closely.
Passengers have also been encouraged to report complaints directly to airport staff or police for swift action against errant operators.
Similar Complaints at Chandigarh Railway Station
The problem is not limited to the airport. Commuters at Chandigarh Railway Station have also reported overcharging by cab, auto-rickshaw, and e-rickshaw drivers.
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Passengers claim drivers often demand Rs 50 extra, citing restrictions on commercial vehicle entry.
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Seema Jain, a passenger, said she was charged Rs 350 for a short ride to Sector 21, calling it “unfair.”
Earlier, a prepaid booth managed by GRP regulated fares, but with its removal, no system remains to check inflated charges.
Key Takeaways
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Chandigarh Airport (CHIAL) warns cab drivers against fake parking fees.
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Police in Mohali and Chandigarh begin strict monitoring.
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Passengers can file complaints at helpline numbers displayed at the airport.
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Railway station passengers face similar overcharging issues due to lack of prepaid fare system.
