Taxis overcharging foreign tourists are a major source of complaints in Phuket, Krabi and Samui. Is the government on the verge to act?
Thailand Ministry of Transport will pursue tough actions against providers of public transportation and other services who are accused of overcharging tourists in the popular holiday destinations of Phuket, Samui and Krabi.
Deputy Transport Minister Chadchart Sittiphan said many tourists in Phuket, Samui and Krabi have complained about overcharging by black-plated taxis and jet ski services. Many travellers feel also concerned about the safety on some privately-run buses.
He has instructed the Land Transport Department and the Marine Department to propose a solution to the problems. The proposals will be submitted to a high-level meeting on dealing with problems affecting the tourism industry, to be chaired by Deputy Prime Minister Chalerm Yubamrung.
The measures will be taken as part of the government’s aim to boost confidence in Thailand’s tourism sector and collect revenue of 2 trillion baht from tourism over five years.
Mr Chadchart said many private vehicles have been illegally converted into so-called black-plated taxis that have been accused of overcharging customers. The ministry is looking into providing incentives for drivers of black-plated taxis to install meters and operate legally as metered taxis. These incentives may include allowing the drivers of the black-plated taxis to charge higher rates than taxis in Bangkok due high cost of living in these tourist areas and a smaller number of customers compared to the capital.
Mr Chadchart said some tourists have said they were cheated or even drugged on board privately run buses, which provide scheduled services against the law. The buses are not registered as vehicles providing regular services on a fixed route. They draw passengers by offering cheap fares.
The deputy minister said a number of jet ski operators demanded exorbitant amounts as compensation from tourists who rented and damaged their jet skis. Jet ski problem comes from a lack of insurance coverage due to current regulations which prohibit renting out jet skis. Regulation is likely to be changed to take into consideration rental services.
Source: The Bangkok Post
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