Taxi Drivers Protest Government’s Proposed Fleet Launch

Taxi drivers staged a protest yesterday evening against the government’s plans to introduce a new taxi fleet operating between Malé and Hulhumalé.

The drivers expressed concerns that the initiative could jeopardise their livelihoods and disrupt the operations of existing taxi centres and garages.

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One of the major concerns revolves around the government’s plan to introduce 320 new vehicles for the taxi fleet at a time when many privately imported cars remain unregistered. Additionally, the drivers have filed a Right to Information (RTI) request seeking further details about the project but claim the government has not responded within the statutory time.

The government’s proposal is part of the Fehi Male’ initiative, launched by the Ministry of Transport to improve taxi services while addressing concerns about urban congestion and vehicle management in the capital city.

Minister of Transport Mohamed Ameen, speaking to a parliamentary committee, said the initiative would introduce oversight and regulation while ensuring safety in the transport sector. He also reassured that the government’s involvement would not harm the interests of existing taxi operators.