Taxi drivers call for fare review
Taxi drivers are calling for a review of passenger fares as rising fuel prices continue to reduce their earnings, while fares remain unchanged.
Drivers say the steady increase in fuel costs has made it difficult to sustain daily operations, with many reporting little to no profit after covering expenses.
Skope, who has driven a taxi for more than 20 years, said the situation is becoming increasingly unsustainable for those who rely on driving as their main source of income. “Fuel is so expensive, and it’s sad because I drive for a living,” he said. “Whatever I earn just goes back into filling my car tank. Every month, fuel goes up, but passenger fares stay the same. Fares should increase, too.”
Ray, who has been a taxi driver for three years, said rising living costs are adding further pressure on drivers already struggling to keep up. “Prices for everything keep going up; it’s all about money nowadays,” he said. “We drive, we earn, and we spend again on fuel. It’s a cycle. It’s not fair for us because the fares remain the same. The LTA should look into this.”
Va’a, who has driven for five years, echoed similar concerns, saying fare adjustments are needed to reflect current fuel prices. “If only the fares increased, it would be fair for us drivers as well,” he said. “No matter the cost of fuel every month, we would be able to manage it with our passenger fares. But since fuel prices rise every month and passenger fares remain the same, it is quite unfair and there is no profit for me.”
Drivers are urging authorities to consider reviewing the current fare structure as fuel costs continue to fluctuate, impacting their livelihoods.