Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has issued a directive urging the police to take stringent measures against the notorious “taxi mafia” operating in the Ratchaprasong area of Bangkok. These taxi drivers have been accused of refusing to use meters and engaging in extortion tactics targeting tourists. The Prime Minister’s call to action specifically targets the issue of “taxi sticker” bribes, with a focus on taxis congregating near the CentralWorld shopping mall.
Recent images circulating on social media, notably shared on the “Taxi Driver Thailand” Facebook page, have shed light on the presence of taxis displaying stickers parked in a designated lane outside CentralWorld. Allegations suggest that these taxis, identifiable by the stickers affixed to their rear windows, are permitted by authorities to pick up passengers without adhering to metered fares, consequently tarnishing the city’s tourism reputation.
During a visit by members of the press to CentralWorld on Tuesday evening, it was observed that taxis were regularly entering the designated lane to pick up passengers, though they were not seen idling indefinitely. Officials have defended this activity, asserting its permissibility, and have emphasized ongoing coordination between law enforcement and mall management to establish designated pickup points for taxis and passengers. Notably, if hailed through a ride-hailing app, the designated meeting point will be situated adjacent to the mall rather than on Ratchadamri Road.
Recent developments also include measures taken by traffic police at the Lumpini precinct to address confusion surrounding lane usage. Signs have been installed indicating that the leftmost lane of the road is open to all vehicles, following misconceptions that it was reserved solely for buses. This clarification aims to alleviate traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. Additionally, authorities have reiterated that while all vehicles are permitted to utilize the leftmost lane, they must refrain from stopping to pick up or drop off passengers.
In a separate investigation, officers at the Lumpini precinct have looked into allegations regarding the “Isetan” sticker scandal, probing potential involvement of influential local groups. The precinct has affirmed that no privileged groups should enjoy preferential parking privileges for picking up passengers or tourists, emphasizing the prohibition of taxis operating without meters and overcharging foreign visitors.
