The rise in illegal transport operations in Fiji has been linked to a shortage of legitimate transport services, particularly during nighttime, according to Infrastructure Assistant Minister Naisa Tuinaceva. He noted that the lack of adequate services from legal operators often drives people to seek out unregulated options.
Minister Tuinaceva acknowledged that the issue of private vehicles serving as illegal taxis extends beyond just Savusavu, with a growing prevalence observed across towns and cities in Fiji. He emphasized that both the Land Transport Authority (LTA) and the Fiji Police Force are addressing the problem, highlighting that the government is taking the situation seriously and has measures in place for enforcement.
Despite these efforts, balancing the enforcement of regulations with the demand for enhanced transport options remains a challenge. The sentiment reflects a broader acknowledgment within the transport sector regarding the inadequacies that require urgent attention.
This situation mirrors concerns raised previously by the Fiji Taxi Association, which has reported insufficient enforcement against illegal taxi operations. The Association has called for immediate actions to curb the rise of “pirate taxis,” especially in urban areas where licensed taxis struggle to meet public demand during off-peak hours.
Looking forward, there is hope that the ongoing discussions and collaborative efforts between transport ministries and taxi associations could pave the way for better regulations, ultimately ensuring safer transport options for both residents and visitors in Fiji. The ongoing commitment to reform signals a positive step towards addressing these critical issues in the transportation sector.
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