Members of the Labasa Taxi Association are urging authorities, including the Land Transport Authority (LTA), to take action against illegal operators using private vehicles, commonly referred to as ‘pirates’.
They have also appealed to the police to reinforce their efforts against the illicit drug trade. Association secretary Sujit Sharma stated that these illegal operators are undermining the earnings of legitimate taxi drivers. He pointed out that these individuals tend to operate during nighttime to evade detection by the LTA or police.
With the Vodafone Festival of the Friendly North currently happening at Subrail Park in Labasa, Mr. Sharma noted that the presence of pirate taxis is particularly pronounced. He warned customers who may be enticed by the lower fares of these vehicles to reconsider their choices, as they lack proper fare meters.
He highlighted the risks associated with traveling in illegal taxis, emphasizing that such choices pose a threat to passenger safety and contribute to the continued operation of these unlawful services. Mr. Sharma observed that the number of pirate taxis has risen in recent years, partly due to an increase in car ownership.
Daily commuter Reshmi Wati expressed her preference for legal taxis, stating, “I don’t want to sit in a taxi that can harm me because taxi drivers are legally responsible to ensure all passengers travel safely, while pirate drivers have no such obligation.”
Additionally, Mr. Sharma requested that the LTA and police remain vigilant for young drivers who may be involved in the drug trade, suggesting that their desire for quick money may lead them to engage in illegal activities.