Mahendra Prasad, chairman of the Labasa Taxi Association, has voiced strong support for public concerns regarding the behavior of some public service vehicle (PSV) drivers who refuse to accept passengers. He highlights that this practice is contributing to an increase in illegal taxi operators in Labasa, emphasizing the need for decisive action from the authorities.
Prasad has called upon the Land Transport Authority (LTA) to take measures against licensed PSV drivers who deny rides for short trips or to specific destinations. He suggests that the LTA should consider deploying plainclothes officers to catch drivers who are violating these rules, and he advocates for increasing the penalties against such offenders.
“I have already spoken to LTA officers, including Mr. Sumal, and urged them to send police officers in civilian clothes to identify these drivers, issue citations, and impose heavier fines. Instead of the current $50 fine, consider adding another $50 to effectively deter these illegal practices,” Prasad remarked.
Furthermore, Prasad insists that PSV drivers must serve all passengers without discrimination between short or long trips. He also encourages taxi drivers in Labasa to enhance their service quality, as he believes that inadequate service from licensed operators is a significant factor driving passengers towards illegal taxi services.
By addressing these issues, Prasad hopes to restore confidence in licensed taxi services and curb the rising trend of unlicensed operators in the area, ultimately leading to better service for the community.