Private-hire car drivers already have an edge over cabbies

I agree with Dr Yik Keng Yeong that it is unrealistic to expect taxi operators to cooperate with private-car hirers (Catching wrongdoers is not bullying; July 8).

All private-hire car drivers must have a vocational driving licence to provide point-to-point service only.

When a private-hire car driver accepts and confirms a booking, he is already aware of the pick-up point and destination, and whether the intended trip complies with the regulations and safety of the passenger.

The driver can pick and choose his fares or destinations that suit him, or when the surcharges are most profitable for him.

Many passengers, while queueing for a taxi at a taxi stand, also search online for a private-hire car service to compare charges and availability.

This is unfair to taxi drivers, who have to ply the streets and queue at designated taxi stands.

Therefore, private-hire cars, as well as private cars, should not be allowed to pick up passengers at taxi stands.

Sum Kam Weng

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on July 10, 2017, with the headline Private-hire car drivers already have an edge over cabbies. Subscribe