Chongqing reduces cab management fees following strike

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2008-11-19 21:14

Licensed drivers launched a two-day strike starting November 3 to protest several issues, including insufficient supplies of compressed natural gas (CNG), which fuels most cabs in the city, competition from unlicensed cabs, high fines for traffic violations and the unfair division of fares between drivers and companies.

The strike became violent as some drivers gathered on business streets to stop working cabs.

On November 10, Chongqing launched a campaign to crack down on unlicensed cabs. Traffic authorities and police increased patrols at transport hubs.

Illegal drivers will be fined 30,000 yuan (about US$4,412) to 100,000 yuan. Their illegal earnings will be confiscated.

The city government also promised to increase CNG supplies.

Cabbies in the suburban district of Yongchuan, who didn't take part in strike, staged a short service stoppage on Wednesday to protest a government plan to increase the number of taxis.

With a population of 310,000, the Yongchuan District, about 60 km west of the city center, planned to increase the number of cabs from 300 to 400.

The cabbies returned to work by about 1:30 p.m. in response to requests from local government officials.

Previous page 1 2 Next Page