While there are several measures that the Government plans to take under the Male’ Fahi Program, one measure that cab drivers noticed is that under this program the Government plans to intervene to some extent in the taxi business of the Maldives.
The Times of Addu
In the Maldives, day-to-day issues such as high rent and poor road conditions are common topics of discussion. Another frequent concern is the taxi business. While in many parts of the world, cab fares are determined by distance and location, in the Maldives, taxi fares have recently become a significant point of contention. The general public finds these fares increasingly unaffordable, making taxi services a luxury that most can only use sparingly. Though fares were once more reasonable, they have surged in recent years, with drivers attributing this increase to rising global fuel prices.
However, the cost of fares is not the only issue at play. Recent government plans have sparked further controversy, prompting taxi drivers to voice concerns about potential negative impacts on their livelihoods. In July 2024, the Maldivian Government unveiled the ‘Male’ Fahi Program’ which seeks a permanent resolution to the congestion in the Male’ City area due to the increased number of vehicles in the city. While there are several measures that the Government plans to take under the Male’ Fahi Program, one measure that cab drivers noticed is that under this program the Government plans to intervene to some extent in the taxi business of the Maldives.
Under point 2.3 of the program, the Transport Ministry of the Maldives highlighted the Government's future initiative to start a taxi line in the Male’ City area. Going into further details, it was noted that the taxi line will be carried out on a free-lance basis, allowing any interested party to sign up to be a driver for the Government run taxi line. Additionally, the document also noted that this taxi line is being introduced as a way to ensure safety for both the driver and the passenger as well as bringing in an opportunity to utilize more eco-friendly vehicles through the use of electric vehicles.
Though there were no other specific details regarding the Government run taxi line, it appears to have caused some unrest among taxi drivers - some of whom depend on their income from their taxi business. In order to raise their concern, some taxi drivers took the measure to meet the Transport Ministry on 4th August, 2024.
The main concerns raised during this meeting were:
Following this meeting, taxi drivers talked to local news sharing that the Government has given them the reassurance that the Government will not be intervening in the taxi business this year as the plans under the Male’ Fahi Program are set to be in motion in two years time.
In consultation with those who are already providing taxi services and in a way that does not disrupt this free trade, there is a formula for those in this business and those who are financially disadvantaged to get assistance through this taxi fleet.
While the plan is set to take place after a two-year period, the Government has also informed the taxi drivers that the Government will be conducting a study starting 1st September, 2024.
