The Land Transport Authority has advised it will take strict action against taxidrivers who cherry-pick passengers and deny short-run requests.

While the LTA hasn’t revealed the exact nature of the action it would take against offending cab drivers, it has confirmed receiving a growing number of reports of taxidrivers refusing requests for short runs.

LTA acting CEO Irimaia Rokosawa said the purpose of taxidrivers’ commitment as public service providers was to cater for the needs of the public, adding they had a responsibility to serve all members of the public without discrimination or bias.

“Denying services for short-run requests not only goes against the principles of public service but also violates the legal obligations set forth for public service vehicle licence holders,” Mr Rokosawa said.

Under public service vehicle regulations, he said, “the person in charge of the taxi must not refuse any person intending to hire a taxi”.

“Taxidrivers are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the Land Transport Regulations 2000 and the conduct for taxidrivers to ensure a smooth and efficient provision of services,” he said.

Mr Rokosawa said the authority remained committed to working with taxidrivers to enhance the overall quality of public transportation in Fiji.