Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation has allocated USD 48.57 as the fine for violation of taxi rates. The new taxi fees came in to effect on August 7.
According to the final rates, the highest fair of a ride between Male' and Hulhumale' should not exceed USD 4.87 and a ride from Male' to Hulhule' and Hulhule' to Hulhumale' should not exceed USD 3.90. The ministry also decided not to change the fees of rides within Male' and Hulhumale'. Moreover, the ministry prohibited to take extra charges for luggage. Transport ministry said the new prices will be effective from August 7 onwards.
In a statement informing of the fee changes, the ministry noted the allocated prices will be beneficial to both customers and drivers. Furthermore, the ministry has granted permission to 3 mobile applications to provide taxi services, which are Avas Ride, E' aee and Pick Me.
The drivers and taxi centres have expressed concerns over the new fares. However, transport ministry declared the new prices will be followed and a fine of USD 48.57 will be imposed if the rules are violated.
Moreover, a special police operation has been launched to determine whether vehicles operated as taxis meet the regulations implemented by transport ministry. The Maldives Police Service and the transport ministry have also established a hotline number to forward cases of violation regarding the new prices.