Bengaluru taxi drivers protest restrictions of yellow-board vehicles at airport
What's the story
Taxi drivers staged a protest near the Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) in Bengaluru on Tuesday against the recent decision of the airport authority to restrict yellow-board commercial vehicles from entering the airport pickup point. The new rule, which came into effect five days ago, allows private white-board vehicles free entry into arrival pick-up zones at Terminals 1 and 2 for eight minutes. Vehicles that overstay beyond the free limit are fined ₹150 for 8-13 minutes and ₹300 for 13-18 minutes.
Penalties imposed
New rules impose fines, towing for overstaying vehicles
If the vehicle exceeds 18 minutes, it will be towed away and fined. All commercial vehicles including yellow-board taxis and electric cabs have been banned from arrival pick-up zones and directed to use designated parking areas instead. App-based and unorganized taxis servicing Terminal 1 have been directed to P3 and P4 parking zones, while those serving Terminal 2 must park in the P2 zone. The first 10 minutes of parking are free; after that, a cost of ₹100 is charged.
Twitter Post
Police carried out mild lathi charge
Protest Erupts Near Kempegowda Airport Over New Pickup Restrictions for Taxis
— Yasir Mushtaq (@path2shah) December 16, 2025
Bengaluru
Tension prevailed near the Sadahalli Toll on the #Bengaluru airport road today as members of the #Karnataka #Taxi Drivers Association staged a protest against new regulations implemented… pic.twitter.com/7nq3v2qhvH
Protest details
Taxi drivers demand reconsideration of new rules
The protest was led by the Karnataka Taxi Drivers's Association, which alleged that the new rule has affected their livelihood. The association demanded a reconsideration of the rules, arguing that they penalize drivers for delays beyond their control, such as long security queues and baggage delays. Many drivers also claimed that after accounting for fuel costs and toll fees, airport trips are no longer financially viable due to these fines.
Travel impact
Protest disrupts airport-bound traffic, passengers advised to plan ahead
The protest is likely to disrupt taxi services and traffic on major airport-bound roads, especially near the Sadahalli toll gate. Taxi unions have warned that pick-up services from the airport may be suspended during this time. Passengers are advised to plan their journeys with extra time as traffic congestion is expected near protest sites. Authorities recommend using BMTC airport buses or private vehicles for travel during this period.