Local taxi drivers have met with Transport Minister Aishath Nahula on Monday, expressing concern about current state-enforced fares for travel between Malé and Hulhumalé.

Drivers that spoke to RaajjeMV said that the current rates are unacceptable and unrealistic, and was decided with ‘no discussion’ with taxi centers.

Minister Nahula had met with all the drivers and listened to their concerns, promising to address to them and hold a public forum to discuss the matter further.

Nahula had also said that any procedural changes or new policies will be made after factoring in the concerns of all parties involved.

Further, referring to reports of traffic police questioning drivers carrying passengers over the bridge connecting Malé with Hulhumalé, Nahula said that this was a decision based on complaints that the police had received.

Current taxi fare rates in the capital city are MVR 25 to anywhere in Malé, to Hulhulé island is MVR 35 and to Hulhumalé is MVR 40. The same rates apply for rates from Hulhumalé to Hulhulé and from Hulhumalé to Malé.

Some drivers have charges MVR 100 or more for travel between Malé and Hulhumalé.