Metered taxis to cut fare haggling

The metered taxi service, to be implemented in phases in the capital city of Muscat, has evoked mixed response.

Among passengers interviewed by Observer, there is a growing interest in the new service, while some taxi drivers still favoured a negotiated fare.

“The move will stamp out overcharging and ensure a uniform tariff system that would be fairer to passengers,” said Abdul Latif, an expatriate who uses taxi services for airport purposes.

In most countries, a minimum fare is charged in specified areas. Instead, passengers here have to bargain with drivers on the fare, he said.

“People are becoming more interested in using metered taxis as this will help avoid haggling and exorbitant charges,” he said.

Last week, the Ministry of Transport and Communications issued licences to Mwasalat, Oman’s National Transport Company, and Ibtikar Technology Company, to start taxi services.

Mwasalat International centres and the capital will operate at Muscat Airport, commercial on-call taxi service in Muscat, while Ibtikar Company will operate in 3, 4 and 5-star hotels as well as on-call taxi services.

The move reflects the Sultanate’s commitment to an efficient transport system. This will help the country attract more tourists as there will be more transparency as far as fair transport charges are concerned, said Faisal Mohamed, an official in the Ministry of Tourism. “In countries where tourism booming, taxi services must is be regulated and be professional. Charges should be fair and uniform,” he opined.

Mwasalat is planning to have at least 400 taxis by the first half of this year, 200 of which will operate at Muscat International Airport.

“The authorities should have launched the system much earlier,” felt Raphael, from Lebanon.

Many taxi drivers try to fleece passengers, especially if they have to go to hotels or malls. Once meters are introduced, this will come to an end,” he said.

While welcoming metered taxis on Oman’s roads, Dileep Malhotra said fares must be competitive.

At the same time, Amar al Balushi, who drives a taxi in Ruwi, said the new system and consequent fares are applicable to companies that operate taxis.

Still, he said, “It is good that taxis will install meters as it will benefit customers and drivers. Having a fare structure is always better.”

Ahmed al Wahaibi, another taxi driver, said meters should be installed in cars that offer services at hotels and tourist places.

“Taxis that ply distances should be suggested. between short exempted,” he