IT is truly a personal joy to note that the government has finally decided to act on this important issue. Several times over the last decade I wrote on the importance of introducing standards in the taxi service industry. I never saw even one letter mentioned in any media from anyone on this issue. It is a hot issue especially for taxi-drivers and operators, which is to be expected, whenever changes are introduced, people will always be for or against the change.

My most detailed exposé on this was written on November 26, 2008. It was heavy and published in all the newspapers. Some drivers even passed and cursed me, even the private guys, asked while passing: ‘How we gun live Roshan’! Well, you private operators compete with the legitimate operators, and hence, there is a need to put your house in order.

It is good that such ideas do make an impact even to the leaders of government who see it fit to act on ideas suggested , even though one never gets credit, it is very satisfying that good ideas are always considered for the benefit of the people and the country.

Many suggestions have been taken over the years, and I smile with happiness when I see them, (including religious events) used to mobilise people of various faiths periodically.

I noticed since the President’s meeting and the Hon. Minister of Home Affairs subsequent commentaries on the matter, all kinds of questions are being asked by the stakeholders. Well this will always be, in time it will be accepted and everyone will go their merry way. This is the best way to go.

Every taxi operator must be screened for a crime free record; their behaviour; personality profile and demeanor. One cannot be a passionate person, who gets annoyed easily as he/she could turn violent on a passenger. They need to wear a kind of acceptable dress-code and never flip flop slippers or untidy beard and t-shirt. T-shirts have to be of an approved service. Every service should have its own t-shirt or uniform. This will bring order, control and decorum. Another reason I had suggested regulation of the taxi industry about five years ago was because some taxi agencies were known to be drug couriers. Such persons or agencies must lose their license to operate a taxi service and also a base station or dispatch centre. No criminals should be allowed to drive a taxi.

For those who say that that the taxis of one colour will create confusion and even easier for criminality. I ask that they, the government and police take note:

1. The colour code varies as per region, and it should always be a two tone color, this will create easy visibility and eliminate monotony.

2. Very, very, very importantly: Each vehicle carries its plate numbers or a special regulation number per vehicle on five sides of the vehicle in addition to the plate. They will say: ‘RK gone mad’, five sides? Well, a board on top with front and back, or on the front hood and rear trunk, the two sides, front or rear fender, the authority decides which, and one on top. Why the top? They will ask!! In event of a crime, a kidnapping, any crime, burglary, armed hold-up, whatever, people from an upper flat, balcony or verandah, or a helicopter flying over may see the number, a number not too long to remember for those having a security conscious mind.

3. THE ACT HAS TO CATER FOR LIMOUSINE SERVICE: Certain people, local and foreign may wish to use a special vehicles for weddings, airport trips, luxury runs, whatever. Limousines should be exclusive, and they usually dark brown or black. Such vehicles should be minimum standard of a MARK II, not less than eight years old. After which they can be made regular taxis. Such vehicle also requires a special marking, but more elegant. The air conditions must always work or they can be fined. If they want to render service of a higher standard then they must provide the service

4. If taxi services are to be policed by the regular police, then the Police will require some specialised training to ensure that taxis and limousines meet their requisite standards for performance.

5. AIRPORT TAXI’S – Airport Taxi’s and Hotel Taxi’s require a more pleasant and possibly uniform color. I suggest again that fees be collected by the airport authority, or maybe they will see the wisdom in about 10 to 20 years, then implement, as per many of my other ideas. After airport collect the fees, the customer only provides a tip if they desire to the driver. The driver gets a chit which he can cash in daily or weekly.

6. Those not authorised to operate taxis, and do so, undercutting the compliant operators who pay taxes, and who may criminally minded, must be dealt with most firmly by the law. They have to comply with the laws.

Also, not forgetting hygiene, this is most important since passengers could be subjected to the foulest of ordour reeking from the breath or the body of the driver.

I saw the need for this regulation about ten years ago. Guess it is a thing whose time has come. I encourage all stakeholders to accept and it is the best for all, for their own good, the image of the country and the traveling public.
ROSHAN KHAN