FOR 16 years, Michael Kumar has been a familiar face at the Tebara Complex taxi base in Nakasi, Nausori greeting passengers with a smile and ensuring they reach their destinations safely.
While what he earns helps pay the bills, the 52-year-old says there is one thing that motivates him more than anything else — his family.
Living in Davuilevu Housing with his wife, three children and elderly parents, Kumar says every day behind the wheel is about providing for the people who depend on him.
“Family always comes first,” he said.
“Driving a taxi is my job, and it allows me to support my children and also take care of my parents. That is what keeps me going every day.” Kumar starts work at 8am and usually finishes by 6pm.
Unlike many drivers who work late into the night, he prefers daylight hours, believing it is safer for both him and his passengers.
“I don’t like driving at night because of safety concerns,” he explained.
“My regular customers know my schedule, and many of them have been travelling with me for years.”
His friendly nature and dependable service have earned him the trust of passengers, many of whom request him by name.
Over the years, however, Kumar has witnessed significant changes in the taxi industry.
Rising fuel prices, increasing vehicle maintenance costs and the higher cost of living have made it difficult for many drivers to stay on the road.
“There were around 21 taxidrivers operating from this base,” he said.
“Now, only a few of us are still running regularly because business has slowed down and operating costs continue to increase.”
Another growing challenge is competition from private vehicles and unlicensed transport operators, who often collect passengers close to taxi stands.
“Private vehicles are taking many of our customers,” Kumar said.
“They wait near our base and pick people up before they reach us.
“It makes it harder for taxidrivers who depend on this work every day.”
Competition among taxi operators has also intensified, with several taxi bases now operating throughout Nakasi.
“There are many taxi stands in the area, so we’re all competing for the same passengers,” he said.
“It’s not easy, but we keep working because our families depend on us.”
Despite the challenges, Kumar remains committed to delivering quality service. He believes taxi driving is not only about transporting passengers from one place to another, but about building trust, ensuring safety and treating every customer with respect.
“Our passengers should always come first,” he said.
“We have a responsibility to make them feel safe and comfortable. Good customer service is what keeps people coming back.”
Reflecting on his years behind the wheel, Kumar says the profession has taught him patience, resilience and the value of honest work.
For those considering a career as a taxidriver, he offers simple but meaningful advice.
“You have to enjoy what you do, be confident, be respectful and be prepared to work hard. Success doesn’t come easily, but if you’re committed and willing to serve people with a positive attitude, you can build a good life.”
After more than 16 years on the road, Kumar continues to drive with purpose proving that every journey he makes is ultimately one that leads back to the people he loves most.
