LTA relaxes CBD taxi rules

Operational hours for the Central Business District (CBD) rule for taxis will be shortened with effect from 1 March 2012. This will allow taxi drivers to pick-up and drop-off passengers along the service routes of public buses.

In addition, the taxi Vocational License Points System (VLPS) will be revised – the existing 3 demerit point penalty will be removed, with an increment to the fine, from $100 to $130.

Speaking on the new implementations, LTA’s Group Director of Vehicle and Transit Licensing Mr Colin Lim, said, “We have reviewed the operational hours and traffic situation following feedback from the National Taxi Association (NTA) and taxi companies. Our key consideration for the CBD rule is safety. As traffic in the CBD is lighter after 8pm, we have relaxed the CBD taxi rule to align with the full-day bus lane operational hours. This balances safety concerns while providing taxi drivers and passengers with more convenience.” 

President of National Taxi Association (NTA) Mr Wee Boon Kim added, “We are glad that LTA has listened and considered NTA’s feedback carefully in their decision-making on the easing of CBD rules. This refinement and shortening of hours on the pick-up and drop-off of passengers inside the CBD area would benefit not just our drivers, but also the passengers. It would make it easier and more convenient for passengers to hail a cab and alight near their destination. At the same time, we are pleased that LTA has decided to withdraw the demerit points accorded to drivers who breach the rules.”