Hari Narayan, left, president of Lautoka Taxi Union with members a at meeting in Lautoka yesterday
ALL taxis in Lautoka are expected to use their taxi meters, says newly appointed Lautoka Taxi Union president Hari Narayan.

He said passengers had the right to complain to the Land Transport Authority on any drivers refusing to use their taxi meters.

"The union would also be taking the driver to task if he or she refuses to use their taxi meters," he said.

"Customers have a right to go and complain to the LTA if taxis found not using taxi meters."

He said members had also raised concerns on the use of smoke emission testing machines being used to pass vehicles.

He said if the machines were used only LPG-fuelled taxis would pass the test.

"LPG gas vehicles would pass the test because some of the vehicles their fuel quality is low and most of the diesel vehicles emit smoke," he said.

"And the test done by the LTA is very wrong. Because as soon as the vehicle engine is running they press the accelerator right to the floor and this they can damage the vehicle and give out excessive smoke."

Mr Narayan said the union also wanted to see the road conditions in the city and surrounding areas upgraded by the relevant authorities.

He said vehicles were also sustaining damage with the poor road conditions around the city caused by bad weather.

Mr Narayan also called on the relevant authorities to look into the concerns regarding illegal operators. He said taxi drivers lose out on up to 50 per cent of business because of illegal operators.

Meanwhile, other office elected office bearers are vice presidents Bijesh Chand and Durup Chand; secretary Abdul Munif, and; assistant secretary Praveen Naidu.

 http://www.fijitimes.com/story.aspx?id=88275