Nadi cabbie Keresoni Vatu says the Land Transport Authority’s (LTA) three-passenger loading rule is “ludicrous”.
He said most of his clientele comprised families with more than two members.
“Families prefer to travel together,” the 35-year-old said.
“If a mother is seeking medical attention and needs to take her children, they won’t be able to if there are more than three persons.
“They will have to travel by bus, this could lead to all sorts of health issues.
“The next best option would be to hire two taxis, which means added cost.
“It has not only created a bigger burden on taxidrivers but also on customers who frequently hire taxis to be transported from point A to point B.”
The Solovi, Nadi, man said he had to pay $140 per week in contract fees to the taxi owner and the new rule would result in a drop in business.
The LTA enforced the 50 per cent loading capacity for all public service vehicle permit holders from Monday, June 19 and later revised it to three passengers per taxi.
Questions sent to outgoing LTA chief executive officer Samuel Simpson regarding Mr Vatu’s concerns remained unanswered when this edition went to press last night.
