The Labasa Taxi Association has raised urgent alarms over the troubling increase in illegal taxi operations, commonly known as “pirate taxis,” which has notably surged during the early hours corresponding with the arrival of inter-island ferries. This has led to a significant influx of unlicensed operators in the vicinity of the Labasa market and bus stand.
Mahen Prasad, the Association’s Chair, underscored the negative impact on the livelihoods of legally registered taxi drivers, pointing out that illegal operators often outnumber authorized taxis. He has called on both the police and the Land Transport Authority (LTA) for enhanced enforcement measures, highlighting the lack of oversight as private vehicles operate as taxis while licensed drivers comply with fees and regulations.
Prasad pointed out that only 40 taxis are authorized to operate from the market taxi stand, although there are 185 licensed taxis that are paying the necessary fees to operate in Labasa. He expressed particular concern over an individual known to authorities who is reportedly orchestrating these illegal operations in tandem with the arrival of inter-island buses.
Samuela Ligairi, the Special Administrator of the Labasa Town Council, has acknowledged the seriousness of this issue, indicating that measures are being taken to bolster enforcement efforts. Presently, town enforcement officers focus on illegal parking and related issues, but they are working on a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the LTA to empower them to more effectively address illegal taxi operations. This partnership is expected to tackle a wider range of problems, including reckless driving and traffic congestion caused by poorly parked vehicles.
The concerns voiced by the Labasa Taxi Association reflect similar issues faced by taxi groups across Fiji, including those in Lautoka and various other regions, where there has been a reported growth of illegal taxi services. This trend not only threatens the income of licensed drivers but also raises potential safety concerns for passengers who might unwittingly use these unauthorized services.
Despite these challenges, the ongoing discussions and collaboration between taxi associations and local authorities provide hope for addressing the issue of illegal taxi operations. With a collective commitment to raising awareness and improving safety measures, there is potential for creating a more secure transportation environment for both drivers and passengers.