Motorcycle taxis face shake-up

The Department of Land Transport (DLT) is stepping up efforts to regulate motorcycle taxi stands, including developing a mobile app to verify the drivers.

The move comes in the wake of deadly violence between two rival motorcycle taxi queues in the capital’s Bang Na district on Saturday, which left one person dead and two injured.

It was reported that the dispute was over alleged passenger poaching. The case has sparked public concern about the safety of the service.

Transport permanent secretary Chaiwat Thongkhamkhoon said the Transport Ministry has instructed the DLT to oversee the operation of motorcycle taxi stands.

Referring to measures to tackle illegal stands, DLT deputy director-general Thanee Sueblerk said his agency will develop a mobile phone app where drivers’ licence numbers can be checked to determine whether they are registered with the DLT.

He said passengers who are overcharged can lodge complaints via the 1584 hotline and this channel can also be used to report unruly driver behaviour. Offenders would be subject to a fine of between 1,000 and 2,000 baht.

“These drivers could have their driving licences seized if they repeatedly commit the same infractions,” he said.

Bangkok governor Aswin Kwanmuang said he instructed all districts to check whether their motorcycle taxi drivers are properly registered.

Deputy police spokesman Kissana Phathanacharoen said yesterday more than 10 people have been arrested in connection with Saturday’s deadly brawl.

Progress is being made in the investigation, he added.