Police ease taxi crackdown amid public transport strain

Following a chaotic start, the Uganda Police Force has adopted a less aggressive approach in their operation to impound commuter taxis deemed to be in dangerous mechanical condition (DMC) within the Greater Kampala Metropolitan Area. The initial crackdown, which began on Monday, saw over 400 taxis impounded, with many deemed too unsafe for the road.

Sources within the Directorate of Traffic and Road Safety indicated that the scaled-down operation on the second day was a strategic “carrot and stick” measure to avoid crippling public transport and the economy. This adjustment followed significant disruptions, including stranded passengers and prolonged delays.

The first day of the operation prompted a rush to repair garages, with many taxi operators responding by taking their vehicles for maintenance. Mechanics reported a significant increase in demand for their services, leading to higher repair costs. Common issues addressed included dashboard repairs, interior refurbishment, repainting, electrical wiring, and tire replacement.

Despite the eased police presence, many taxi drivers remained hesitant to return their vehicles to the road, contributing to a continued shortage of public transport during peak hours. This scarcity has led to increased fares by some operators and a surge in demand for alternative transport like motorcycles and trains. However, the Uganda Railways Corporation’s capacity is limited, and they are monitoring the situation to determine if service expansion is necessary.

A meeting between taxi operators, government officials, and traffic commanders is scheduled to review the operation, present findings, and establish a timeline for compliance with safety standards. The initial 100-day operation aims to improve road safety by removing unsafe vehicles from circulation.