Taxi operators in Noro town, Western Province, have raised serious concerns over bus drivers allegedly violating traffic regulations by encroaching on routes designated for taxis and picking up passengers in restricted areas.
Local taxi drivers say bus operators are disregarding the Noro Town Council’s traffic by-laws, particularly those governing feeder roads that are reserved for taxi services.
They claimed buses are stopping at undesignated points and taking passengers meant for taxis, a practice they describe as unfair and disruptive to their livelihoods.
According to the drivers, police traffic officers have repeatedly warned bus operators not to use feeder roads that are strictly allocated for taxis.
However, despite multiple orders and reminders, bus drivers have allegedly continued to ignore these directives and persist in stopping wherever they can pick up passengers.
One of the Taxi drivers in Noro told Solomon Star in an interview on Wednesday that the issue has worsened since the newly upgraded tar-sealed road was completed, with more buses operating and reportedly failing to comply with traffic rules.
They argued that this has significantly reduced their daily earnings, affecting both taxi owners and casual drivers who depend on the income for their families.
They also highlighted that many taxi operators are struggling to meet costs associated with inspections conducted by the Ministry of Infrastructure Development (MID), particularly for spare parts and maintenance.
The situation, they say, has been made worse by buses taking over routes that are not designated for them.
Another concerned taxi driver stated that despite reporting the matter to the Noro Town Council Clerk and President, there has been little to no response from the authorities.
They are now calling on the Noro Town Council (NTC) to urgently address the issue, facilitate dialogue between stakeholders, and implement clearer enforcement of traffic regulations to ensure fairness for all transport operators in Noro.
Meanwhile, the official handover of the newly upgraded Noro tar-sealed road is scheduled to take place this coming Friday.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
