What they say
Yan Feng, professor of Chinese language and literature at Fudan University
The fact that Didi refused to provide the car’s license plate number and the driver’s phone number out of privacy concerns is an abuse of the concept of privacy. The “hitch” service is a public service during working hours, so the public has the right to know and supervise. The driver’s number is encrypted anyway, so it has nothing to do with personal privacy. As for the car’s license plate, I suggest that all license plates on ride-hailing platforms should be traceable, as well as the driver’s credit record.
Huang Shaoqing, researcher of applied economics at Shanghai Jiao Tong University For passengers, online ridehailing services are less safe than traditional taxi services. Does it mean it is no longer advisable to keep offering online ride-hailing? No. But it is necessary to establish stricter regulations and supervision to ensure security. Any platforms or companies that overlook self-regulation or evade public supervision must be punished.
Bill Russo, CEO of Automobility Limited, a consultancy in Shanghai The fact that Didi has a driver safety and security issue is a real problem for Didi ... and an opportunity for new service providers who can better meet demand for mobility.
Xu Kangming, transportation expert and president of 3E Transportation Systems in Shanghai
It’s time to rethink the policies regarding such instant hitchhiking services. These companies are using the hitchhiking platforms to operate illegal ride-hailing services, and there are a lot of people and vehicles involved. The companies ignore the value of life and think compensation relieves all disasters. Such thoughts are highly dangerous. It’s time to stop all instant “hitch” services or the next tragedy is just a matter of time.
Zhou Ming, lawyer at Joint-Win Partners in Shanghai The screening process of online ride-hailing drivers by authorities should not be so quick to grant a business permit. It should include rules for appraisal, feedback, warning and disqualification of drivers based on their record — such as if they have had complaints or any record of bad or dishonest behavior. To protect people’s safety, the administrative body should make laws and severely punish those who violate the law.