Taxi Drivers Alarmed by Increasing Transport Licenses
Taxi drivers in Madeira are raising concerns about the growing number of transport licenses being issued. Representatives of the taxi industry recently met with the Secretary of Tourism and Transport to discuss the issue. With more tourist transport vehicles on the road, taxi drivers worry that the competition is becoming too strong, making their work more difficult.
More Rental Cars and Travel Agencies Operating
The number of tourist transport services in the region has increased significantly. At present, there are 209 licensed tourist transport operators and 508 travel agencies. Additionally, 170 companies provide rental car services, bringing an estimated 40,000 rental vehicles to Madeira’s roads. Taxi drivers believe these figures are troubling, as they reduce their chances of getting customers and earning an income.
Taxi Industry Calls for Stricter Licensing Rules
A major issue for taxi drivers is how transport licenses are issued. Unlike taxi permits, which apply to individual vehicles, a single tourism transport license can cover many vehicles - sometimes ten, fifty, or even a hundred. This has led to more tourist vehicles on the road, increasing congestion and making taxi services less efficient. Taxi industry representatives are calling on tourism officials to introduce stricter controls on these licenses.
Government Committee Examines the Situation
The regional government is now reviewing the issue. Taxi industry representatives have emphasized the need for clear rules to prevent an excessive number of tourist transport vehicles from overwhelming Madeira’s roads. The taxi sector is now waiting for a response from authorities on possible actions to solve the problem.
Source: RTP Madeira
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