Efforts to introduce a government-backed taxi service in the Greater Male’ area are moving forward, with limited operations expected to begin before the end of Ramadan as the first batch of vehicles arrives in the Maldives.
Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation Mohamed Ameen stated that the service is being prepared for launch under a contract awarded to Maldives Transport and Contracting Company (MTCC). The initiative is intended to address persistent difficulties passengers face in securing taxis and to introduce a more structured system for urban transport services.
According to the minister, the taxis required for the service are currently being shipped to the Maldives. The vehicles have been modified to suit local conditions, including the coastal environment.
The fleet will consist of three different vehicle models imported in two separate batches. One shipment of 60 cars is being transported from Thailand, while the remaining vehicles are arriving from China. One of the shipments is expected to reach the Maldives on 11 March, while further details regarding the second batch from China are scheduled to be announced on 6 March.
The government plans to introduce the service in stages. Initial operations are expected to begin on 18 March, around the time of Eid, with a limited number of taxis operating as the system is rolled out.
In total, the government plans to bring in 150 vehicles for the service. Recruitment for drivers is also underway, with a total of 407 drivers being hired. Of these, 285 will work full time, while 122 will operate on a part-time basis.
The new service is being positioned as an additional option within the taxi market, with authorities indicating that it is intended to improve availability and service standards in the capital region.
