THE Fiji Taxi Association has called on the Land Transport Authority to reconsider the mandatory installation of fire-extinguishers in cabs.

FTA general secretary Ashwin Lal claimed the fire-extinguishers could be used weapons to rob and harm taxi-drivers.

“Consider the operators request because they are the one who are on the road everyday and putting their lives at risk,” he said.

The LTA had informed the association that under the new LTA Taxi Technical Procedures Manual, all taxis should have a dry powder fire extinguisher fitted inside their vehicles.

Mr Lal said they have met the LTA three times on the issue and expressed their objection.

“Does the Fiji Constitution give authority to LTA to implement any such laws in public service vehicles where the majority objects?”

He said the FTA hoped the LTA would abandon the mandatory installation of fire extinguishers.

However, LTA CEO Samuel Simpson is adamant taxis should comply with the requirement.

“The Authority consulted the Fiji Taxi Association twice in 2018 on this matter and no objections were raised,” he said.

“Why now do the FTA raise such issues especially when safety is at risk?

“LTA officers will be monitoring this requirement in public service vehicles to ensure passenger safety.”

Mr Simpson said all public service vehicles such as bus, taxis, rental cars, and LM (minibuses) must have a fire extinguisher installed.