The Land Transport Authority (LTA) has initiated a series of public consultations across Fiji, commencing in Labasa this week. The objective is to solicit feedback from stakeholders and the general public regarding the country’s taxi permit regulations and operations.
LTA Chief Executive Officer Irimaia Rokosawa emphasized that these consultations aim to reassess and enhance the policies and procedures related to taxi permits and the Open Taxi Ranking System. He acknowledged the need for public and stakeholder input, as the transport sector continues to evolve.
Rokosawa described the consultations as a vital opportunity for anyone involved in the taxi industry—permit holders, taxi operators, passengers, and the public—to voice their opinions and contribute to shaping the future of taxi operations in Fiji.
During these meetings, topics such as existing challenges within the current framework, the Open Taxi Ranking System, and suggestions for improvements to address public transport demands will be discussed. The sessions will also feature panel discussions with representatives from important stakeholders, including the Ministry of Local Government, the Ministry of Transport, and the Fiji Roads Authority.
The outcomes of these consultations are expected to guide future enhancements in Fiji’s taxi industry, including the possibility of lifting the current freeze on new taxi permits as part of governmental planning.
Rokosawa reiterated the commitment to a participatory approach, welcoming insights from the community to create a taxi permit and ranking system that is fair, accessible, and responsive to the needs of the Fijian people. He strongly encouraged taxi permit holders and the public to engage in these discussions, as the feedback collected will help form a comprehensive regulatory framework aligned with national goals and the evolving needs of the taxi industry and its riders.
The public consultations are scheduled as follows:
– Northern Division on Monday, October 28, 2024, at the Salvation Army, Hospital Road, Labasa;
– Western Division on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at the Returned Service League (RSL) Hotel Hall, Tavewa Avenue, Lautoka;
– Eastern Division on Wednesday, October 30, 2024, at Nausori Village Community Hall, Nausori;
– Central Division on Thursday, October 31, 2024, at the FTA Hall, Knollys Street in Suva.
This initiative demonstrates a proactive approach by the LTA to engage the community and adapt to the dynamic needs of the transport industry. The consultations provide a platform for meaningful dialogue that could lead to significant improvements in the regulatory framework governing Fiji’s taxi services.
In summary, the LTA is taking a significant step towards including the community in shaping a better transportation framework in Fiji, fostering collaboration and improvement within the taxi service industry.
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