Africa-Press – Cape verde. The president of the Praia Taxi Drivers Association, Adriano Monteiro, welcomed the approval of the Safe Taxi System this Wednesday in the coastal city, considering the measure useful for the profession, despite pointing out delays in the process.
Contacted by Inforpress, Adriano Monteiro stated that the government’s approval of the Safe Taxi System (STS) corresponds to a long-standing demand from professionals in the sector, presented, according to him, since 2020.
“It was good, I am very grateful. We have been asking for this for a long time, because it is another useful tool for the profession,” he declared.
The leader recalled that the request gained strength during a period marked “by strong insecurity,” when taxi drivers reported “two to three robberies per day or per night.”
At that time, he stressed, the implementation of the system would have had an even greater impact.
Monteiro indicated that there were even two companies prepared to move forward with the project, but that the initiative did not receive the green light and did not continue.
Still, he understands that the decision now taken represents “a positive step, albeit a late one.”
The same source considered the panic button a viable mechanism and that the presented platform could reinforce the protection of owners, drivers, and passengers.
“I believe it will greatly help the safety of both,” he emphasized, acknowledging that the current context already registers fewer incidents than in the past.
The official warned, however, about future costs, since after the first two phases supported by the State, the maintenance of the equipment will be the responsibility of the owners.
Therefore, he warned of “another expense,” in a sector that already bears costs for painting vehicles, acquiring taximeters, and complying with various legal requirements.
He also stressed that the discussion should not be limited to the aspect of safety.
He recalled that taxi fares have not been updated for more than 20 years and argued that the new platform, by presenting the fare to the customer, could pave the way for reviewing prices and allowing some financial balance.
Regarding the installation of audio and video recording devices in vehicles, the director noted that there is no reason for alarm, as it is a public space and a work tool, similar to other locations that have video surveillance systems.
Regarding the one-year deadline for mandatory adherence, it was considered short, since the president of this entity understands that the sector needs more time to acquire the equipment and adapt to the new requirements, suggesting a minimum period of 18 months.
Despite the reservations raised, Adriano Monteiro reiterated that the Safe Taxi System represents an important tool for the sector and can contribute to strengthening confidence in the service provided in the city of Praia.
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