Phuket officials demand Uber vow against illegal taxi revival

PHUKET: Fears of technology company Uber, which provides an alternative way to catch a cab, thereby potentially allowing a resurgence in illegal taxi drivers operating in Bangkok and Phuket, led to the Department of Land Transportation (DLT) deeming the services illegal prior to a full investigation.

The Phuket Land Transportation Office (PLTO) has suggested that Uber clarify its current role in the island’s public-transport sector.

Uber, which launched in Phuket earlier this month, is a smartphone application that allows members to track Uber-approved drivers in the area, as well as hail drivers with the tap on the screen.

“Though functioning as a middle man connecting passengers with drivers, it is essential for Uber to still coordinate with the PLTO so that we have an understanding of how many drivers use their services, and who these drivers are,” PLTO chief Terayout Prasertphol told the Phuket Gazette today.

“We understand that they are aiming to improve the quality and safety of taxi services in Phuket. However, many of the changes we have recently made to rid the island of ‘black plate’ [illegal] taxis have already done that (story here).

“At this point, we need to take steps to ensure that illegal taxi drivers are not able to find ways back into the system.”

Mr Terayout’s concerns echoed those voiced by the DLT’s official warning on Friday, which suggested that the company may be placing customers unknowingly in the hands of illegal drivers.

The company, however, explained to the Gazette that such is not the case.

“In Phuket, Uber partners with established, licensed chauffeur-driven limousines / rental companies that are registered and accredited by the government,” an Uber representative told the Gazette today.

Nonetheless, Mr Terayout said a sting operation might be established to catch any possibly illegal drivers operating at the beckoning of Uber.

Uber, a US$18.2 billion (596bn baht) company that currently purporting to operate in more than 250 countries, explained to the Gazette today that they were more than willing to cooperate with officials.

“We respect and welcome the opportunity to engage with the relevant authorities to help them better understand the value we bring to the transportation system of Thailand,” the Uber representative said.

“Uber is bringing safety, reliability and convenience to millions of riders, while creating economic opportunities for hundreds of thousands of driver-partners.”

According to the DLT statement, Uber company representatives in Thailand – not the drivers themselves – could be charged with operating an illegal public transportation service, which carries a maximum penalty of up to five years, a fine of up to 100,000 baht, or both.

The key is for Uber to get approval of the provincial government, said Mr Terayout.

“I’m not saying that Uber can never operate in Phuket. They just need approval first,” Mr Terayout says.

— Chutharat Plerin