Sharjah defers taxi fare increase

Sharjah: Transport authorities in Sharjah have confirmed that tariff rates for taxis will not be increased until October 1, allowing commuters to find an alternative means of transportation.

"It is all due to the technical difficulties that we are facing. But we are confident that the new tariff of Dh1 per Dh620 metres will be implemented for all of our franchises by next month," said Saeed Abdullah, manager of the media section at Sharjah Transport.

It was previously announced that on September 1, taxi meters would charge Dh1 for every 620 metres instead of the previous rate of Dh1 for every 650 metres.

"We have already postponed the minimum taxi fare of Dh10 until October 1, and so the increase in the taxi meter will also take effect on the same day in October," said Abdullah.

The increase in the tariff, and the implementation of a minimum charge, was made in order to accommodate the price hike in fuel.

Residents expressed a sigh of relief at the tariff hike being postponed.

"I am earning a minimum wage and it is already difficult for me to find transportation to get to work. Now that I have one month extra before the hikes get into effect, I will try to car pool with a few friends of mine. I just hope that I will not then get into trouble for using an illegally taxi," said a Filipino resident.

However, commuters said they were still dissatisfied with the upcoming introduction of a minimum charge of Dh10.

"This hike will only discourage people further from using taxis for short distances. It will cost me only a couple of dirhams in petrol and another Dh2 in parking. So why should I pay Dh10 for a Dh5 trip," said Alex.