Singaporeans dismayed at taxis charging S$50-65 for 4km rides from Marina Bay Sands

SINGAPORE: Recent reports of taxi touting at Marina Bay Sands have dismayed Singaporeans, who were upset that some drivers have been charging between S$50 to S$65 from MBS to Orchard Road or Little India, both of which are only four kilometres away.

On Sunday (Nov 26), 8world reported incidents of drivers in vehicles offering rides to people looking to book cabs at exorbitant rates. A reporter from 8world, acting like she urgently needed a ride, was given a quote of S$50 for a trip to Orchard Road.

Taxi drivers who have asked for exorbitant fares have said the high rates are due to traffic and bad weather conditions. Many of the people approached by these drivers are tourists or foreigners. Some visitors to Singapore are likely to be unaware that taxi drivers are required to use the meter and issue receipts when requested.

The management of MBS has said that it is working with the Land Transport Authority to investigate the matter.

Nevertheless, it’s an issue that has caused some Singaporeans to be upset, characterizing taxi touting as ill behaviour that reflects badly on the country.

A letter written to The Straits Times listed how taxi touting affects Singapore and has negative effects not only on foreigners visiting the country but also on other taxi drivers who are trying to earn a living.

“Taxi companies must constantly remind their drivers of the severe penalty if caught touting. Local residents who witness such touting must step up to assist the tourists. We can perhaps guide them to take other forms of public transport instead of just relying on taxis,” wrote Foo Sing Kheng, who praised MBS for deploying additional personnel to guard against these incidents.

On CNA’s Facebook page, some commenters said fines are too mild for taxi touts, suggesting that these drivers should be permanently banned.

Another appeared to agree, saying that one high-profile case would serve as a strong deterrent. Others suggested rewards for those who reported such incidents as this would help “nip” the situation “in the bud.”

One woman pointed out that taxi touting also happens at Marquee, a toney nightclub at MBS, while others urged the authorities to act quickly before the situation gets “out of control.”

Another suggested that MBS and the Tourist Promotion Board could also post signs at the taxi stand locations that show estimated fares to popular locations. /TISG

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