Maldives Police Service has launched a special operation to determine whether vehicles operated as taxis meet the Taxi Regulation implemented by Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation. As part of the operation, the police will ensure vehicles meet the latest amendments brought to the regulation.
During the operation, police officers will check the Vehicle Registration and Road worthiness as well as check if 20 years have not passed since the vehicle was manufactured. The police will also check if the drivers follow the rates allocated by the transport ministry. The transport ministry has revealed the drivers should follow the new rates without bringing any changes.
Speaking to PSM News, Deputy Minister Shimaz Ali stated the new prices will be effective from August 7, revealing the ministry have no plans to review the prices. Shimaz Ali said if the rules are not followed or violated, necessary action will be taken, noting efforts are underway to establish a hotline to report complaints against taxis.
Over the allocation of the new prices, taxi centres and drivers have raised several concerns. The deputy minister said meetings have been held with taxi centres operating in Male' City. Citing the meetings, Shimaz revealed overall the prices were accepted by the centres, adding concerns were raised over the decision to give permission to private hires. He added private hires must also take necessary permits from the ministry.
The highest fair of a ride between Male' and Hulhumale' should not exceed USD 4.87 and a ride from Male' to Hulhule' and Hulhule' to Hulhumale' should not exceed USD 3.90, according to the final rates. The ministry also decided not to change the fees of rides within Male' and Hulhumale'. Moreover, the ministry prohibited to take extra charges for luggage. Transport ministry said the new prices will be effective from August 7 onwards.
In a statement informing of the fee changes, the ministry noted the allocated prices will be beneficial to both customers and drivers. Furthermore, the ministry has granted permission to 3 mobile applications to provide taxi services, which are Avas Ride, E' aee and Pick Me.