Lautoka man claims discrimination from taxi drivers – FBC News

Lautoka resident Petero Kaukau has raised several concerns that he believes require immediate attention.

During a public consultation to review the taxi licensing process and operations, Kaukau alleged cases including racial discrimination by taxi drivers when picking up passengers.

He even shared his personal experiences, expressing frustration at the lack of inclusivity within the service.

“Performing racist services, I spent most of my time standing at the CJ taxi rank in front of this shop, when I was waiting there and an Indo-Fijian taxi driver came and I stopped him and he walked towards another Indian. to the person standing in front of me, we need to check this most of the time.”

Beyond the issue of racism, Kaukau encourages drivers to improve their customer service by simply smiling at passengers – a small gesture that he believes can go a long way towards improving the overall experience.

He raised concerns about drivers who smoke in their vehicles, leaving an unpleasant cigarette smell that lingers for subsequent passengers.

Kaukau also claims that some taxi drivers drank grog during the day and the smell could be smelled when entering the car.

He argues that such behavior not only reflects poorly on the taxi service, but also raises concerns about the safety of passengers.

Land Transport Authority (LTA) Director General Irimaya Rokosawa acknowledges the validity of these provisions and intends to continue to investigate the issues.

Fiji Taxi Association president Ashwin Lal agrees with the need to improve driver behavior, stressing that the association constantly reminds its members to improve service standards.

He assures members that efforts are being made to eliminate such behavior.

The issue of insufficient availability of taxis at night and early in the morning was also raised.

LTA has called on public service vehicle (PSV) drivers to increase their presence during these critical hours to meet passenger demand.

In response to growing concerns, Veilomai Taxis secretary John Masirewa has proposed an option aimed at improving taxi services in Lautoka.

“Mostly at night you will see the Parises, just my suggestion is it possible to give them permits so that they can operate at night to resolve the issues of providing services at night.”

Consultations will continue tomorrow in Nausori.