The Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation has introduced significant reforms to the nation’s taxi regulations, halving the registration threshold required to establish taxi centres.
Effective immediately, the minimum number of vehicles required to establish a taxi centre has been reduced from 100 to 50. The move aims to lower barriers for new entrants, foster competition, and enhance service quality for passengers while expanding opportunities for drivers and service providers.
The amendment emphasises modernising the road transport system and creating a more flexible framework for operators. By halving the registration threshold, the Ministry expects to stimulate innovation and economic participation, particularly among small businesses and entrepreneurs.
Additionally, licensed taxi drivers will now be permitted to work simultaneously with two taxi centres, offering them greater earning potential while enabling centres to manage demand fluctuations, especially during peak hours.
To address the growing role of digital platforms in transport, the amendment mandates that companies offering taxi services via mobile apps or online portals obtain a special permit from the ministry. This provision aims to ensure accountability and passenger safety, aligning digital services with the same standards as traditional operators.
The regulation also clarifies that transport companies must adhere strictly to their stated mandates, requiring registration and compliance with taxi-specific rules if their services overlap with taxi operations.
The Ministry underscored that these changes are part of a broader strategy to build a reliable, efficient, and modern taxi service system.