by Mickey Kavera – EM TV News, Port Moresby
A local taxi operator wants the ban imposed on the issuance of licences to new taxis lifted.
Managing Director for taxi service, Kanny Trans, blames the rise in illegal taxis on the ban.
He said there is a need to professionalise the taxi service but the conditions are not conducive.
Wek Kewa is one of many taxi service operators in the city.
He has, over the years, strived to lift the standard of taxi service but like many operators he is facing a stumbling block.
“I am not sure who is responsible, is it the Minister for Transport, William Duma, or the Land Transport Department?” he asked.
For over two years, he has applied for licences for his new fleet of taxis but was denied on several occasions.
He is not sure who to blame, but wants those responsible to clear the air.
“Since 2013, I’ve been waiting for my licences but to no avail.”
While most professional taxi operators are complying with government requirements, illegal taxi operators are thriving at their expense.
Kewa said such requirements as having a taxi meter is of no benefit as it is not used at all because customers do not want to use it.
“We are not using the meters but the government has increased the price from K1,650 to K1,750,” he said
Kewa added that taxis have become a convenient mode of transportation in the city and require the support of all stakeholders.
Wek Kewa has a total of 42 fleets and drivers. He plans to increase the number but that will all depend on the licence ban.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=DlDBBX9rl70%3Ffeature%3Doembed%26wmode%3Dopaque%26showinfo%3D0%26showsearch%3D0%26rel%3D0
