Drivers in Kochi demand clean washrooms, rest areas at hotels and resorts
TOURIST taxi drivers in Kochi have renewed their demand for well-maintained washrooms and common resting areas at hotels and resorts, stating that such basic amenities are essential for those who spend long hours on the road accompanying tourists.
The issue came to the fore after a group of tourist taxi drivers staged a protest outside a leading hotel in Kochi, alleging that they were denied access to restroom facilities while waiting for guests. The drivers said they often have to remain parked for several hours but are left without access to toilets or places to rest.
According to drivers' representatives, the lack of basic facilities affects not only their dignity and health but also the overall experience offered to tourists. They pointed out that drivers serve as the first point of contact for many visitors and play a key role in promoting Kerala as a tourist destination.
The demand is not new. In 2024, the Kerala government directed classified hotels and tourist accommodation units to provide restroom facilities and other basic amenities for tourist taxi drivers transporting domestic and international visitors. The order followed discussions between the Tourism Department and stakeholders in the tourism sector.
Driver associations are now urging the authorities to ensure strict implementation of the government directive. They have also called for common resting rooms, drinking water, seating arrangements and hygienic washrooms at hotels, resorts and major tourist destinations.
Tourism stakeholders believe that providing such facilities is a small but significant step towards improving the welfare of drivers, who are widely regarded as ambassadors of Kerala Tourism. They argue that better working conditions for drivers will ultimately enhance the state's reputation as a visitor-friendly destination.
