Young taxi driver in Numaniyah offers fixed 1,000-dinar fare

WASIT — A young taxi driver in Numaniyah has launched an initiative to charge passengers only 1,000 dinars ($0.70) per ride anywhere in the city, hanging a sign on his car to announce the fixed fare.

The driver, Ahmed Hadi, said the idea came from a friend while he was unemployed and searching for work. “My friend suggested this idea, as I was looking for a job, and asked me to reduce the taxi fare to 1,000 dinars ($0.70) only and put up a sign for it,” Hadi told 964media.

He acknowledged the price is unsustainable. “The amount of 1,000 dinars ($0.70) is little, it is not enough to support my family, maintain the car, or buy medicine for my mother, but I relied on God and want to work, and I hope my idea succeeds,” he said. Hadi added that in the first days “people’s comments and looks” embarrassed him, and children followed him in the street, but he continued despite his difficult financial circumstances.

Local residents said the initiative offers an affordable alternative comparable to tuk-tuks, but with greater safety and privacy for families. “The idea is nice, it provides taxi service at the price of a tuk-tuk, and it is useful for families, as most of us in Numaniyah are conservative families. Riding a tuk-tuk may not suit some and does not provide enough safety,” resident Montaser Hashim told 964media.

He added, “Numaniyah knows Ahmed well, he is a poor young man with a family to support, and we hope people interact positively with him and help him succeed in earning his livelihood.”