Time to  standardise  tuk-tuk fares

People travelling by tuk-tuks now seem to be in a dilemma as they are being charged different rates. Normal tuks charge passengers differently but hires on ride-hailing apps seem to cost much higher than normal rates. But the main objective of introducing ride-hailing apps was to introduce fair tuk-tuk charges on people. However the situation has now gotten out of hand to the point that tuk-tuk drivers are demanding the government to implement a standard starting fare. Certain meter readings are quite unfair that a ride from Town Hall to Kottawa ended at Rs. 2500. The situation in the outskirts is much different as the starting price for a journey that is less than a kilometer is Rs. 200. Therefore, those who are used to travelling by tuk-tuks maybe charged unfair rates due to persisting issues in regulating fares. In other countries, public transport is quite cheap including ride-hailing apps making it more convenient for people to use public transport than their own vehicles. However, it is the opposite on this paradise. There have been instances when tourists were charged higher rates, prompting them to take to social media. It is now up to the Government to regulate tuk-tuk fares and bring about a more people-friendly public transport system. 

Asela Perera 

Delkanda