It's great news - every fils counts, residents say

Dubai: Gulf News readers were ecstatic after the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced that people would not have to pay the Salik toll when using taxis.

Keith Alaska, an American expatriate and orthoptist by profession, uses taxi frequently.

He said: "Every time I use a taxi, I have to pay at least Dh8 for the Salik toll. This initiative will encourage me to use taxis more often since a discount is always welcome." He expressed concern regarding taxi drivers' honesty.

Alaska said: "When in a taxi, I usually do not notice what route the taxi driver takes or the number of toll gates crossed within the journey. However, I pay the fare without asking any questions. The taxi fare may seem like a small amount initially, but for a regular user it adds up."

Daoud Khalaf, a Jordanian expatriate, agreed.

He said: "There are some people who depend on taxis as their only source of transport. This initiative will be refreshing news for them."

Bridget Selvaraj, an Indian expatriate and secretary by profession, is glad her taxi journeys will soon cost less.

She said: "Every time I used a taxi I had to pay Dh4 for the Salik toll, but I never received a receipt for the taxi fare. However, the taxi drivers and passengers should both be aware of the new rules in order to ensure an honest transaction."

Definite start

Rashid Pasha, a Pakistani expatriate and resident of Sharjah, thought the initiative would be beneficial for taxi users.

He said: "It is a definite start. Most taxi users will be saving at least Dh8 per day and that is great news." While most residents expressed gratitude, there were some who believed that paying the toll was well justified.

Naina Nair, an Indian expatriate, thought that the initiative would be welcomed but it would prove to be a setback for taxi drivers.

She said: "People using taxis can easily afford to pay a Dh4 toll. However, most taxi drivers are struggling to make a living and for them every fils counts."