Transport Unions Stage Road Block in Dharamshala, Raise Concerns Over ATS Practices

Transport unions across Himachal Pradesh staged a one-day strike on Monday, blocking roads and halting commercial vehicle movement in Dharamshala to protest against the government’s centralized Automated Testing Stations (ATS). The action has caused major disruption for tourists and local commuters.

The unions, including private bus operators, truck operators, taxi and auto-rickshaw unions, argued that the ATS in Kangra district is located in Rani Tal, far from most transporters’ operating zones. Some drivers reportedly have to travel over 100 kilometers, incurring extra time and costs. Protesters also accused ATS centers of overcharging for essentials like yellow strips, fire extinguishers, and first aid kits.

Thakur Mehar Singh, president of the Ex-Servicemen Taxi Union, told ANI that the unions had repeatedly submitted memorandums to the government but were ignored. “We are demanding manual vehicle clearance, or at least multiple ATS centers to reduce inconvenience. At present, the facility is very far from Dharamshala,” he said.

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Ashok Sharma, a taxi operator, confirmed that all commercial vehicle unions in the district, including bus, taxi, auto, and truck unions, joined the strike.

Tourists have faced severe inconvenience due to the protest. Harsh, a traveller, said, “Our entire plan has been shattered as no vehicles are available to reach our hostel, two hours away.” Another group of visitors from Delhi reported being unable to hire taxis or scooties and had to reschedule their travel plans.

Authorities have urged travellers to stay informed on road conditions and anticipate delays as the strike continues, while the unions insist the protest is a necessary measure to highlight grievances over accessibility and charges at the ATS.

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