MALÉ, Maldives – The Maldivian government, through the Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC), is preparing to launch a new ‘Taxi Line’ service, with operations targeted to commence by Eid, Transport Minister Mohamed Ameen announced recently.

Minister Ameen stated that the first batch of vehicles for the service is expected to arrive in the Maldives on the 11th of this month. The announcement was made during a press conference held at the President’s Office.

Vehicle Deliveries and Previous Delays

The minister elaborated that the vehicles designated for the ‘Taxi Line’ will be delivered in two batches. While the first consignment is scheduled for arrival on the 11th of the current month, the exact date for the second batch’s arrival is anticipated to be confirmed by next Friday.

This initiative follows previous attempts to introduce the service, with earlier target dates in July and August having passed without implementation.

Industry Concerns and Government Response

The proposed introduction of the government-backed ‘Taxi Line’ has raised concerns among existing taxi drivers and operators in the Maldives. They have voiced apprehension that a new taxi fleet could negatively impact their livelihoods, including those of independent taxi drivers, taxi centres, and rental car services.

However, the government has sought to allay these fears, asserting that the ‘Taxi Line’ is not intended to monopolise or “capture” any existing businesses. Officials have reassured taxi drivers that the new service should not be a cause for concern regarding their current operations.