Source: www.7days.ae
Reckless driving by taxi drivers was the main complaint from customers at a forum held in Dubai by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).
Members of the public, along with taxi firms, were invited to the 18th Customers Council recently.
Part of the council involved an open discussion on how to improve the taxi service, however the RTA also revealed that it is to toughen up its inspection programme.
The RTA said that most customers expressed concern about cabbies driving in a reckless or negligent manner.
Other complaints included drivers refusing to pick people up at particular times of the day, abusive language and a lack of cleanliness. Some customers also asked the RTA to lower taxi fares.
Mohammed Obaid Al Mulla, the chairman of the Customers Council, said all the comments would be taken into consideration.
He said: “We will spare no effort towards addressing all the needs and expectations of the public.
“The RTA is, therefore, is to launch wide-ranging and continuous inspection campaigns targeting taxis and will take appropriate measures against offending drivers and vehicles flouting the codes of cleaning and dealing with road users and passengers, among others.
“We will also introduce a rating system for the franchise companies through drawing specific samples of vehicles from each company and examining them over a three to four month period to ascertain their commitment and compliance with the approved conditions and standards and verify the compliance of the companies as well.”
He added: “We are also keen on motivating cabdrivers who show excellent efficiency and skill in driving and communicating with users through continuously honouring them such that they become role models to be emulated by their colleagues.”
