Taxi operators in Kampala are hesitant to hike the taxi fares that were announced by their leaders.
The Uganda Taxi Operators-UTOF during a meeting on Thursday approved the increment in transport fares, citing increased costs of operations.
According to UTOF, taxis operating within Kampala district boundaries, increased by 500 shillings, those within 35 kilometers by 1,000 shillings, those between 40km to 100 km, increased by 2,000, those traveling 130 km by 3,000 shillings, and those beyond 140 kilometers by 5,000 Shillings.
However, several drivers in both the Old and New Taxi Parks interviewed by URN say that they are reluctant to increase the fares. They argue that it will turn away customers who will resort to using taxis operating in ungazetted places.
Francis Ssemakula of Entebbe stage says that the passengers’ responses towards the new fares have been negative. He says that the only option is to reduce the fuel prices and the amount of money they remit to the taxi owners.
Christopher Bagabo of Mulago-Nsoosba, Kitala-TASO stage, says that they are not aware of any increments. He says that their leaders have not received any communication from the stage leaders.
Mukalazi Nanjwenge of Busiika stage mentioned that there is no need to increase the fare because of competition from Boda-Bodas riders.
Mustafa Mayambala the UTOF vice-chairperson explained that the proposal to increase the fares came from the drivers through the Various stage committees.
-URN
