Commuters find it easier to get taxis after new measures kick in

SINGAPORE: Commuters in the Central Business District (CBD) are now finding it easier to hail a taxi after the rules have been eased for taxi drivers to pick up and drop off passengers.

Previously, taxi drivers could only pick up or drop off passengers at taxi stands or along side roads during specific periods in the CBD.

Taxis can now stop on all roads at all times, with exceptions — those with bus lanes in operation and selected roads such as High Street and Esplanade Drive.

Another reason why it is now easier to get a taxi is that taxi companies must also ensure that 70 per cent of their fleet are on the roads during the morning and evening peak periods between 7am and 11am and between 5pm and 11pm.

Seventy per cent of the taxis of each taxi company will have to chalk up at least 250 kilometres in mileage a day.

This works out to around eight to nine hours on the road per day, five days a week.

Taxi drivers are confident they can meet this target by sharing the mileage with another driver or driving longer.

Being able to get a taxi more easily on Wednesday may also be due to the fact that many people have not yet returned from leave. When asked to comment on the effect of the new measures, the National Taxi Association said it is too early to tell.

The Land Transport Authority will evaluate each operator’s performance monthly.

Operators will have to submit data on whether they have achieved the standards.

— CNA/fa