Drivers Association Vice President Ahmed Habeeb stated in a press conference yesterday that multiple meetings with Transport Ministry officials have not resolved their concerns.
Taxi drivers have announced plans for a strike in protest against the government's proposed launch of a taxi fleet to operate between Male' and Hulhumale'.
The drivers said that the initiative poses a threat to their livelihoods and the operations of existing taxi centers and garages.
Drivers Association Vice President Ahmed Habeeb stated in a press conference yesterday that multiple meetings with Transport Ministry officials have not resolved their concerns.
Although the association has formally requested a meeting with President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, no response has been received.
The association is worried about the government's plan to introduce 320 vehicles for the taxi fleet, as many privately imported cars remain unregistered.
The drivers have filed a Right to Information (RTI) request seeking details about the project, but the government has not responded within the required timeframe.
Adam Saleem, a member of the association said that the association has now decided to move forward with direct action.
The date and time of the protest would be announced soon, he said.
The government’s proposal, part of the Transport Ministry's Fehi Male' initiative, aims to improve taxi services and manage the growing number of vehicles in the capital city.
Minister of Transport Mohamed Ameen, speaking at a relevant parliament committee said that the initiative would enable implementation of regulation and oversight necessary to address safety concerns and prevent urban congestion.
he also assured that the government’s involvement would not harm existing drivers.
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