New rules help curb illegal taxi operations

The practice of city taxi drivers carrying passengers to other emirates has been curbed after new measures were introduced.

Major Sheikh Moham-med bin Khalid Al Qasimi, who heads the Road Inspection Unit at the Police Operations Room, said there have been just three cases since the beginning of Ramadan.

The law says only taxi drivers operating from the taxi stand can transport people to other emirates.

The authorities are imposing a Dh500 fine on each passenger, but this is being waived during Ramadan.

"Offenders are being let off with a written warning, which is being registered at the Traffic and Licensing Department. If the offence is repeated, the old and current fine will have to be paid."

The law says if the offence is repeated, police will seize the car.

He said: "These drivers take away business from taxi drivers at the stand by charging lower fares. Drivers at the stand complained to us, threatening to quit work."

The department in coordination with the Operations Room has increased the number of patrols at the entrances of Ras Al Khaimah.

The policeman at the taxi stand has also been asked to be more alert and regulate work there.