Members of the Labasa Taxi Association are urging authorities and the Land Transport Authority (LTA) to take action against illegal taxi operators known as ‘Pirates,’ who are using private vehicles for transportation. The association has also requested that police intensify their efforts to combat the illicit drug trade.
Sujit Sharma, secretary of the Association, reported that these illegal operators are undermining legitimate taxi drivers’ earnings. He noted that these pirate taxis tend to operate during the night to evade detection by the LTA and law enforcement.
With the Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North taking place at Subrail Park in Labasa, the presence of illegal taxi services is particularly notable. Sharma advised customers to reconsider choosing these cheaper options, as they do not have legitimate fare meters in place. He highlighted the risks passengers face, stating that using illegal taxis compromises their safety and supports an unlawful enterprise.
Sharma observed that the number of pirate taxis has surged in recent years, largely due to an increase in car ownership. Daily taxi commuter Reshmi Wati expressed her preference for legal taxis for her daily commute, emphasizing that licensed drivers are accountable for ensuring passenger safety, which is not the case with pirate operators.
Additionally, Sharma called for heightened vigilance from the LTA and police regarding drivers who may be involved in the drug trade, noting that younger drivers might be involved, seeking to earn quick money with little effort.