Mahendra Prasad, the chairman of the Labasa Taxi Association, has voiced significant concerns regarding the conduct of certain public service vehicle (PSV) drivers who are increasingly refusing to accept passengers. He pointed out that this ongoing issue is contributing to a rise in illegal taxi operations within Labasa and urged authorities to take immediate action.
In a call to the Land Transport Authority (LTA), Prasad emphasized the need to penalize licensed PSV drivers who deny rides for short distances or specific locations. He proposed that the LTA could enhance enforcement by dispatching plainclothes officers to identify and cite these drivers. He has already discussed the matter with LTA officials, including Mr. Sumal, advocating for an increase in penalties. Current fines, he suggested, could be raised from $50 to $100 to more effectively discourage such behavior.
Prasad stressed that all PSV drivers should serve every passenger, regardless of the trip length. He also urged licensed taxi drivers in Labasa to improve their service quality since he believes that poor service is a key factor pushing customers towards illegal alternatives.
Through these efforts, Prasad aims not only to strengthen confidence in legitimate taxi services but also to significantly reduce the number of unlicensed operators in the region, leading to enhanced service for the community. His proactive stance highlights the importance of accountability and service improvement within the public transport sector, fostering a more reliable and trustworthy taxi system for residents and visitors alike.