Association discusses issues on illegal transport, safety of drivers

THE increasing number of illegal transport operators, the merits of a rotating base system, and safety and security of cabbies topped the agenda at a meeting of the Fiji Taxi Association Lautoka branch yesterday.
During the meeting, the members also agreed that the present executives would continue in their respective roles until next year.
Raben Bhan Singh continues as president, vice presidents are Sesoni Naise and Pramod Kumar, and Deepak Kumar continues as secretary.
Chief guest at the meeting, Carpenters sales manager West and North, Sumanth Kumar, said despite the myriad of issues facing the taxi industry, it was encouraging to note the unity that existed among association members.
“We just ask for continued support from the public for our taxi industry,” he said.
“If ever there is an issue, only those travelling in a licensed public service vehicle will have avenues for compensation.”
Association secretary, Mr Kumar, said with more than 500 illegal transport operators in Lautoka alone, legitimate taxi drivers were finding it hard to eke out a decent living.
The Fiji Taxi Association Lautoka branch has 98 members.