Councillor calls for new city ride-hailing app

Motorcycle taxi drivers join a campaign against drugs in Bangkok on Jan 21, 2024. (Photo: Varuth Hirunyatheb)
On January 21, 2024, motorbike taxi drivers in Bangkok visit a drug-free zone. ( Photo: Varuth Hirunyatheb)

The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration ( BMA ) has requested that Viput Srivaurai, the councillor for Bang Rak district, create a new application to call motorcycle taxis to ensure safety and fair prices for passengers.

At a recent Bangkok Metropolitan Council ( BMC) meeting, Mr. Viput said he had a suggestion for a motion calling for this.

He argued that the BMA may develop a data management system to organize motorbike taxi services, which contains information on vehicles and their vehicles.

He also emphasized the need for a ride-hailing service that offers affordable rates to offer people in Bangkok with an alternative mode of transportation that is both safe and convenient, as well as quick access to motorcycle taxis.

According to Mr. Viput, for a company would also lower the fees that motorcycle taxi drivers are subject to when providing their services via private platforms.

Bangkok government Chadchart Sittipunt said the BMA now has a collection of scooter taxi services in the city, which includes data about areas of assistance stations, the number of drivers, their Card numbers, license plate numbers, fares, and so on.

However, the database cannot be shared with the public due to the Personal Data Protection Act ( PDPA ), he said.

There are now around 5, 300 motorbike taxi service facilities and 80, 000 registered vehicles in Bangkok.

Denial of service, absurd fares, and drivers ‘ inappropriate behavior are some of the most frequent issues that people experience when using a motorbike taxi service.