Taxicab is a popular transport service around the world. But it has become almost invisible in Dhaka city. Currently, only a few taxicabs are seen on the roads in the capital city. Some yellow taxicabs are still in operation. If no new investment comes in cab service, these yellow taxicabs will soon be shelved, too. The popularity of ridesharing service has also contributed to the abolition of taxicab service in Bangladesh
The taxicab service was introduced to Bangladesh in 2001 with around 4,400 air-conditioned yellow cabs of a minimum of 1,300 CC and around 6,400 non-AC cabs of a minimum of 800 CC. When the taxicab service started most people had huge expectations. But the expectations did not last more than two decades. And one of the main reasons behind this situation is that our taxicab drivers are not skilled and they charge exorbitantly from their passengers. The regular refusal by taxicab drivers to drop customers off at their desired destination was also a prominent cause. To charge passengers reasonably and according to the metre has never been followed. There are strict laws regarding this problem but they have no implementation.
Taxis are an important mode of transport for any city. They are not only comfortable but also ensure round the clock service. However, it is unfortunate that we in Dhaka city have not been able to establish an affordable taxi service yet. So, we urge the authorities concerned to address this problem and take initiatives so that taxis become one of our basic modes of transport.
Md. Fajlay Rabbi,
Dashmina, Patuakhali,
fajlayrabbiraaz670@gmail.com