Sulaymaniyah to launch taximeter project to eliminate fare disputes

SULAYMANIYAH — A new taximeter project aimed at eliminating fare disputes between passengers and taxi drivers is set to launch in Sulaymaniyah at the beginning of the new year. The initiative will introduce a base fare of 250 dinars ($0.16) as soon as a passenger opens the taxi door, according to Azad Ahmad, head of the Sulaymaniyah Drivers’ Union.

Currently, taxi drivers in Sulaymaniyah estimate fares based on the destination or charge a fixed rate for certain routes, as taxis do not have meters installed. Ahmad told 964media that “a private company is currently preparing to install meters in taxis throughout Sulaymaniyah city under the government’s regulations.” The meters will start at 250 dinars when the taxi door opens and calculate the fare based on the distance traveled, with the process being monitored by the company.

“The necessary approvals have been obtained from the relevant authorities, and the company is awaiting the arrival of the equipment,” Ahmad said. “The goal is to begin implementation at the start of the new year.”

He explained that the meter will display a screen inside the taxi, tracking the route in real-time and monitored by the company. “The driver will not be able to tamper with the device, and the number of passengers will also be recorded,” Ahmad added.

Ahmad emphasized that taxis without the installed meters will not be licensed by the Traffic Directorate.

However, he noted that “the cost of the device and the fare rate per kilometer for passengers have yet to be determined.”

On May 20, 2024, the Kurdistan Regional Government’s Ministry of Transportation issued Directive No. 1 of 2024 concerning the operation and installation of taximeters. The directive aims to oversee the implementation of taximeters across the Kurdistan region and to monitor the companies participating in the project. The ministry requires all participating companies to provide standard tools and equipment necessary for the successful implementation of the project.

The taximeter is a digital device designed to calculate fares based on the distance traveled and time elapsed, ensuring transparent and consistent pricing for passengers and drivers. Installed within the taxi, the meter automatically activates when the passenger opens the door, starting with a base fare and then incrementing according to the distance covered. Monitored by the taxi company, the device displays the fare in real-time, minimizing disputes over pricing and preventing unauthorized fare manipulation by drivers. The taximeter aims to standardize fare calculations, foster trust between passengers and drivers, and streamline the overall taxi service experience.