The Handicaps Welfare Association applauds the implementation of this taxi-stand rule, in the interest of commuters' and other road users' safety, by the Land Transport Authority (LTA).

The additional taxi stands to be erected in the CBD mean there will now be a taxi stand within 300m, or less than a five-minute walk from any building in the CBD.

However, we are concerned how a disabled or elderly person in a wheelchair will be hindered by such a rule.

To a disabled or elderly person in a wheelchair, this 300m or five-minute walk may be a tiring 15- to 20-minute wheelchair ride away.

Besides, almost all taxi stands are inaccessible to people in wheelchairs.

The Building and Construction Authority has constantly encouraged the development of user-friendly buildings and environment in Singapore.

In implementing this new rule, the LTA probably failed to address the concerns of people in wheelchairs. This group of people depends largely on taxis to meet their transport needs.

We hope the LTA can enlighten us on how this minority group will not be penalised by taxi drivers who may choose not to pick up people in wheelchairs as a result of this new rule.

Nancy Chia (Ms)
President
Handicaps Welfare Association

FORUM NOTE: Transport Minister Raymond Lim said on Saturday the LTA will adjust the rule on taxis picking up and dropping off passengers in the CBD and make an announcement soon.

OUT OF REACH

'Besides, almost all taxi stands are inaccessible to people in wheelchairs.'