Taxi operators in Lautoka are calling for an increase in fare rate to provide a sense of relief considering the impact of the recent fuel price increase.
Lautoka Taxi Association general secretary Saiyaz Firoz Dean said this was the consensus across all taxi associations and the national taxi union.
“The normal fare for 100 metres is just ten cents, so we are requesting another eight cents. After all, the waiting charge is also 18 cents, and we want the authorities to change the flag fall as the fuel price increases,” he said.
Mr Dean said operators were buckling under financial pressure, with some opting for formal employment.
“We don’t get duty concessions on the parts. For example, the bus operators had some relief from the government, but we are also PSV (public service vehicle) operators, and we want everyone to be treated fairly.”
Mr Dean said the association had made submissions to the Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) detailing their request.
“If the fuel price increases to $3.80, $3.90 or $4.00 a litre, they can make a temporary change and if things normalise, then they can put it (fare rate) back.”
Duiyasana Taxis and Tours chair Rupeni Tabutabu said he was considering reducing his fleet of 35 vehicles.
“Before, we would fill the fuel for $30 to $40. Now it has increased to $60 and $70 a day. We are thinking of cutting down the number of vehicles, but this will impact the overall business and customer base.”
Mr Tabutabu said he would also be making a submission to the FCCC.
Questions have been sent to the FCCC.
