The Fiji Taxi Association has expressed outrage over a recent incident involving a taxi driver who was filmed watching pornography while driving with a female passenger. The video, shared on social media, has sparked conversations about passenger safety and ethical conduct within the taxi industry.
Ashwin Lal, the Association’s General Secretary, stated that this behavior is entirely unacceptable and urged the authorities to investigate the matter. Although the Association has not received an official report, it plans to conduct its own investigation, reinforcing the belief that drivers should prioritize passenger safety over their personal entertainment.
Lal commented, “Drivers are meant to take passengers to their destination smoothly, not watch pornography while driving. They should not even be picking up their phones while driving.” He also mentioned that if it is confirmed that the driver was indeed using their phone, they should face charges.
In light of this incident, the Fiji Police have encouraged the victim to come forward to enable a thorough investigation, emphasizing the need for accountability in such serious matters. This call for action aligns with past incidents concerning passenger safety in Fiji’s taxi services.
The Fiji Taxi Association has previously addressed the dangers posed by illegal taxi operations, often referred to as “pirate taxis,” which lack the necessary regulations and compliance. These discussions have gained traction following a separate disturbing incident involving the assault of airline crew members by unregistered taxi operators, highlighting the ongoing challenges the taxi industry faces in ensuring safe and secure services.
There is a collective hope within the community that swift action will be taken to restore trust and safety in Fiji’s taxi services, fostering a safer environment for both residents and tourists in the region. The proactive measures taken by associations and authorities call for a concerted effort to improve the standards and safety measures in Fiji’s transportation sector. This advocacy for safer practices is crucial not only for customer satisfaction but also for maintaining Fiji’s reputation as a welcoming tourist destination.
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