Minister: Taxi fares will be revised after multi-level consultations

Transport Minister Mohamed Saeed, on Tuesday, stated that the government will undertake a review of existing taxi fares only after conducting comprehensive consultations with all relevant stakeholders.

The ongoing conflict in the Middle East has resulted in a marked increase in global oil prices. Recent data indicate that crude oil prices have exceeded USD 95 per barrel, contributing to an approximate 12.5 percent rise in fuel prices in the Maldives.

Responding to a question from Sun during a press conference held at the President’s Office on Tuesday, Minister Saeed acknowledged that taxi drivers have requested a revision of fares in light of the escalating fuel costs.

Minister Saeed, who assumed responsibility for the transport portfolio earlier this month, noted that the Ministry is currently reviewing formal submissions made by drivers. He emphasized the necessity of deliberating the matter at the cabinet level prior to initiating further engagement with individual drivers and private taxi operators.

“I will engage in consultations with all stakeholders,” Minister Saeed affirmed.

The Minister further underscored the importance of maintaining defined service standards within the taxi sector in Malé. He referred to a recent social media post highlighting the substandard condition of a taxi’s interior, including damaged seating, noting that although the post did not identify the vehicle or driver, he would have reached out to the individual had such information been available.

“Taxi drivers will also have their own perspectives that must be taken into consideration,” he added.

He reiterated the government’s commitment to adopting a comprehensive and inclusive approach, engaging with members of the public, taxi drivers, and service providers through a structured national dialogue to address concerns and identify viable solutions.

Additionally, the Minister addressed public grievances related to traffic congestion and illegal parking, which frequently obstruct emergency vehicles such as ambulances. He observed that the high volume of vehicles on the roads continues to pose a significant challenge.

The current taxi fare structure established by the Transport Ministry is as follows:

Trips within Malé: MVR 30
Trips between Phase 1 and Phase 2 of Hulhumalé: MVR 40
Trips between Malé and Velana International Airport: MVR 70
Trips between Malé and Hulhumalé Phase 1: MVR 85
Trips between Malé and Hulhumalé Phase 2: MVR 100

Motorcycle taxi fares are set at half the rate of standard car taxi services.

Notably, taxi drivers previously met with President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu on December 23 to present their concerns regarding vehicle registration, parking constraints, and the potential implications of a proposed state-operated taxi service. During that meeting, they additionally proposed immediate measures aimed at alleviating traffic congestion in the capital.