Too many taxis with no benefit: Solutions to traffic congestions

Too many taxis with no benefit: Solutions to traffic congestions

By Khaled Al-Abdulhadi

KUWAIT: Taxis are a significant traffic burden, and the interior ministry is actively working to address this issue. Taxis are not considered economically beneficial for the country, and the underdeveloped tourism sector cannot justify their high numbers. Al-Jarida newspaper interviewed the General Director of the Traffic Department at the Interior Ministry Yousif Al-Khadda and asked about the issue of taxi drivers causing traffic jams.

He confirmed that there are 10,400 taxis in the country, with 4,700 operating on demand. The ministry is taking strict measures against them, including recording violations that could lead to the impoundment of their vehicles.

Reducing number of taxis

Government sources with knowledge of the matter revealed that the taxi problem in Kuwait will be discussed in an upcoming meeting involving the ministry of interior and the supreme committee for addressing demographics led by Interior Minister Sheikh Talal Al-Khaled Al-Sabah. Authorities, particularly the ministry of interior, are of the view that there are too many taxis in Kuwait, leading to unnecessary traffic congestion.

Furthermore, the taxi industry’s contribution to the country’s economy is minimal, as drivers typically work for sponsors in exchange for money, while the state bears the burden of their impact on public services. A proposal has