The number of taxis in the country is increasing and so is the challenge of getting passengers. In Phuentshogling, taxi drivers are worried about bus operators deploying additional buses when scheduled buses are full. They say this is affecting their business. The Bhutan Taxi Association shared these concerns with the prime minister during his recent visit to Phuentshogling.
Taxi drivers in Phuentshogling are worried about their livelihood as more buses are allowed to serve the public during peak travel times.
They said they are confused if allowing additional buses based on passenger volume without a fixed schedule is legal.
“When scheduled buses fill up and there are still many people needing transportation, extra buses are brought in. This is affecting taxi drivers a lot. We come from humble backgrounds and depend on taxis for our livelihood. So, we would be grateful if the government could investigate this matter. In the past, when we reported to the authorities, they took action. But now, it seems nothing is being done,” said Kinzang Dorji, a taxi driver.
“It is a big challenge for us. When there is a surge in travellers, extra buses are brought in without a fixed schedule. We are all Bhutanese and I feel we should all have equal opportunities and fair chances,” said Dawa Singye, also a taxi driver.
The taxi drivers also shared their dissatisfaction with the requirement for new vehicles to operate as taxis while second-hand buses can run as scheduled buses.
Meanwhile, officials from the Bhutan Construction and Transport Authority said that additional buses are permitted only with their approval.
According to the authority, the decision aims to promote public transportation in the country, providing people with more options.
Meanwhile, the prime minister, during a meeting with taxi drivers in Phuentshogling assured the taxi drivers that steps would be taken to address their concerns.
Kinley Dem, Phuentshogling
Edited by Sonam Pem
