The Transport Ministry has been given the mission of improving the working conditions for motorcycle taxi drivers after the Thai government recently took into account a number of complaints from these drivers.
Following a discussion between Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin and representatives from the driving community, the decision was made at the weekend.
This was the fourth meeting the prime minister has had with diverse groups to better understand their way of life since his appointment, and it took place at the Pheu Thai Party headquarters in Bangkok.
The PM’s Office Minister Puangpet Chunlaiad, Transport Minister Suriya Jungrungreangkit, and Deputy Transport Minister Manaporn Charoensri joined the Prime Minister. The motorcycle taxi drivers expressed their worries, which included a range of issues, including high fuel costs, the lack of pick-up locations, an age restriction for drivers and a lack of funding for purchasing new or electric vehicles.
Srettha reassured the taxi sellers that the government is prepared to address their most serious concerns in response to the motorbike drivers’ complaints.
Allowing drivers older than 60 to continue working as motorbike taxis while passing a health exam was one urgent measure suggested. The 61-year-old PM also made reference to the need for further discussions with the Labour Ministry regarding social security coverage for this group.
Srettha disclosed that the government would ask state-run banks to take into account providing lenient loans to taxi drivers who wanted to buy new motorcycles or make the conversion to electric ones.
Another workable approach was a revenue-sharing programme. Taxi drivers would be expected to split their profits to fund the costs under this proposal, rather than taking out loans to buy electric motorcycles.
Srettha suggested creating a local ride-hailing smartphone application for motorcycle taxi drivers in addition to these immediate measures to ensure equitable treatment. He has asked the new transport minister to look at the matter because this might involve changes to the current laws.
Suriya responded by saying that a working committee will be established to look into these issues and that results are expected in two months. The cabinet will then be presented with these findings for further consideration.
Srettha spoke with industry representatives in Samut Songkhram before this most recent meeting. to discuss strategies to increase tourism during the forthcoming high season, from November to March. He also met with representatives from the travel industry.
