Government to Review Taxi Fares After Stakeholder Consultations, Minister Says

Transport Minister Mohamed Saeed has stated that the government will review existing taxi fares only after conducting consultations with all relevant stakeholders, amid growing concerns from drivers over rising fuel costs.

The remarks were made during a press conference held at the President’s Office on Tuesday in response to questions regarding possible fare revisions.

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The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has contributed to rising global oil prices, with crude oil reportedly exceeding USD 95 per barrel. The increase has led to an estimated 12.5 per cent rise in fuel prices in the Maldives.

Minister Saeed acknowledged that taxi drivers had requested a revision of fares due to higher operating costs linked to the increase in fuel prices.

The Minister, who assumed responsibility for the transport portfolio earlier this month, stated that the Ministry is currently reviewing formal submissions made by drivers. He said the matter would need to be discussed at cabinet level before further engagement takes place with individual drivers and private taxi operators.

He added that consultations would be carried out with all stakeholders as part of the review process.

Minister Saeed also highlighted the importance of maintaining service standards within the taxi sector in Malé. Referring to a recent social media post showing the poor interior condition of a taxi, including damaged seating, he stated that action could have been taken had the vehicle or driver been identified.

The Minister said taxi drivers’ concerns and perspectives would also need to be taken into consideration as part of the government’s approach to addressing issues within the sector.

He further stated that the government intends to engage members of the public, taxi drivers and service providers through a broader national dialogue aimed at identifying practical solutions to challenges facing transport services in the capital.

The Minister also addressed public complaints regarding traffic congestion and illegal parking, noting that blocked roads frequently hinder the movement of emergency vehicles, including ambulances. He said the growing number of vehicles on the roads remained a major challenge.