In an attempt to address widespread criticism that Guangzhou taxi drivers are engaging in fare-hiking, the Guangzhou Taxi Association, along with major taxi companies and drivers, forwarded a proposal yesterday to increase cabbies’ wages.
The logic is that by raising their wages, drivers in the city may be less likely to cheat passengers or demand RMB100 for a RMB30 ride. According to the Guangzhou Taxi Association, drivers’ wages in the city are “too low,” at around RMB5,000 per month, down from RMB6,000-7,000 in 2014.
So what does the proposed cabbie wage increase mean to you? As you’d probably suspect, a higher starting price on the meter – although a number has not been confirmed yet.
Currently, Guangzhou taxi meters start at RMB10, which covers the first 2.5 kilometers of travel. After that, the fare increases by RMB2.6 per kilometer.
The rate is the lowest among China's four largest first-tier cities, with Shanghai taxis asking RMB14 for the first 3 kilometers, Beijing cabs charging RMB13 for the first 3 kilometers and Shenzhen taxis starting at RMB10 for the first 2 kilometers, plus an additional RMB1 per ride to cover gas expenses.
The news of a possible wage increase comes hot on the heels of an announcement that cameras and audio monitoring equipment – with real time access to traffic administrative authorities – will be installed in all Guangzhou taxis starting next month.
READ MORE: You Can Now Report Taxi Drivers through WeChat in Guangzhou
[Images JOuTrip]
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