Quatre-Cocos: Overcharging by Taxi Drivers

Residents of Quatre-Cocos, located in the eastern part of the island, are voicing their concerns over what they call "excessive fares" charged by certain taxi drivers. Due to the lack of a regular bus service, especially on weekends and during school holidays, families feel compelled to pay exorbitant rates for transportation. Maryam, a local resident, explains that the situation has become increasingly intolerable.

"In our area, bus schedules are very limited. During the week, there are only five trips, with the last one at 5 PM. On weekends or holidays, there are only three trips, with the last one leaving at 1 PM. After that, no more buses run," she laments. According to her, this limitation forces many people to rely on taxi services, yet the prices charged by some drivers are excessive.

Fares

During the school year, the student bus fare is Rs 24. However, due to the irregular service, students often have to take taxis. The official fare for students is supposed to be Rs 30, but many end up paying more in reality.

"Some drivers ask for Rs 34 or even more, claiming that the children are not in uniform or that they are traveling on a Sunday," Maryam explains.

The residents feel that this is a social injustice. "Many families here live modestly. The children do not dare to complain. It’s exploitation, especially considering there are no alternative transport options," she adds.

Long Journeys

The issue is not limited to short trips. To get to Port-Louis, several residents claim that the taxi fare has risen from Rs 45 to Rs 60, with some drivers demanding as much as Rs 100 per seat on Sundays and holidays.

"It’s too much. It feels like the drivers set their prices based on their mood or demand. On holidays, it’s even worse," complains another Quatre-Cocos resident.

Private cars, without taxi plates, are now carrying passengers, often at even higher rates. These vehicles, not regulated by authorities, contribute to confusion and distrust in the area.

"Some are operating without permits, but it seems no one is monitoring them."

Transport Ministry

When contacted for a response during the show "Explik Ou Ka" on Radio Plus, Iqbal Oozageer, press officer at the Ministry of Transport, explained that taxi fares are not officially regulated.

"Taxi fares are not regulated. It’s a matter of supply and demand: the driver sets the price, and the passenger either accepts it or not," he clarified.

He emphasized that buses, however, must adhere to a schedule established by the National Land Transport Authority.

For the people of Quatre-Cocos, it is urgent that authorities address this situation. They are calling for stricter regulation of operators and better coordination of transport services to prevent families from being financially burdened.

"Thanks to the show, we finally received explanations. It has helped us a lot," says Maryam. She expresses gratitude to the team of "Explik Ou Ka" for their attentiveness.