The issue of the open taxi rank system (OTRS) is being established because people are complaining that taxis are not present at taxi bases, says Transport Minister Ro Filipe Tuisawau.
“Well, the public is saying that there’s no taxi at the places where the bases are,” Ro Filipe said.
He said by reverting to the taxi stand and base system the issue of taxis not present at taxi bases would be resolved.
Ro Filipe said busy spots could be considered for open bases for taxis.
“For example, within the open areas in front of shops, that can be open and taxis can come in as they wish when they leave their base.
“So it’s more to get them back to their bases, but the open system will be still there in another format.
“So that will resolve some of their issues.
“But the main thing is to open up the taxi permits and also to ensure that the bases have the taxis there when people need them.”
The Land Transport Authority has supported the Minister for Transport’s announcement on the removal of the open taxi rank system (OTRS) and reverting to the taxi stand and base system.
LTA chief executive officer Irimaia Rokosawa said the transition of reverting the OTRS to the base and stand system will be carried out in phases.
“The process will include the amendment to the Regulation before finalisation of the process on the engagement of municipal councils and other relevant stakeholders in the allocation of bases and stand,” Mr Rokosawa said.
“The public will be informed when the process is finalised in line with the regulation.”
