Over 200 taxi drivers booked under demerit system

Transport Secretary Mable Chan disclosed on Wednesday that over 200 taxi drivers have accumulated demerit points since the Taxi Driver Offence Points System began in September 2024. This system targets 11 offenses that impact service quality, with drivers accruing points based on the severity of their actions and receiving penalties once they reach specific thresholds.

The most severe penalty, a 10-point deduction, is levied for refusing a hire. Chan clarified that 125 cases revolved around this offense. Drivers accumulating 15 or more points have been banned from operating a taxi for three months. The Transport Department has handled nearly 6,000 driver-related complaints between September 2024 and August, with 605 complaints centered on refusing a hire.

Upon receiving complaints, the department launches investigations and may hand them over to law enforcement, contingent on the case's nature. The Transport Department will also send letters to taxi owners or drivers, requesting explanations and emphasizing compliance with the legislation and improving service attitudes. Chan added that taxis will be required to have a journey-recording system, including a dash camera, in-vehicle recording system, and a global navigation satellite system, by the end of the year.

This new rule aims to both deter drivers and ensure a factual record in disputes between passengers and drivers.