Government announced last year that taxi meters would be implemented very soon; however, Minister fails to explain reasons behind ongoing delays in launching initiative

Despite the government's announcement last year that taxi meters would be introduced very soon, Minister of Economic Development, Transport and Trade Mohamed Saeed failed to provide an explanation regarding the ongoing delays in implementing the system when questioned.

The Ministry of Transport stated last year that there is widespread public demand for the installation of taxi meters, and announced that the service would be introduced soon. Furthermore, the government noted that implementing a metered system would provide a comprehensive solution to the ongoing challenges facing the taxi industry.

Consequently, during Tuesday's press conference, a journalist inquired about the reasons behind the ongoing delays in that project.

The Minister did not provide a direct answer to that question. Instead, he maintained that if regulations mandate the use of taxi meters, they must be installed; however, if it is determined that they are not required, then installation will not be necessary.

The government's decision regarding the installation of taxi meters and the establishment of service standards must be made in consultation with taxi centers. If regulations mandate the use of meters, then those standards must be upheld. Conversely, if it is determined that meters are not required, the regulations should be amended accordingly; however, as long as the requirement remains in force, it must be complied with.

Minister of Economic Development, Transport and Trade Mohamed Saeed

The Minister further stated that taxi drivers have requested adjustments to taxi fares in response to fluctuating fuel prices. Saeed noted that drivers had previously submitted formal letters to the Ministry of Transport regarding this matter.

Minister Saeed stated that the government will hold necessary discussions with relevant authorities regarding the concerns raised by taxi drivers in their letter.

I have stated that if we receive formal correspondence from taxi drivers, we are keen to review their concerns. Following this, we will discuss the matter at the cabinet level and ensure that drivers are included among the stakeholders in any further consultations.

Minister of Economic Development, Transport and Trade Mohamed Saeed

Despite the Minister's remarks, the government had previously stated that it has no intention of revising the taxi fares established by the former administration. At the time, the government maintained that introducing metered taxi services would be the primary solution to addressing ongoing public complaints regarding fare prices.