Qatar’s Cabinet has signed off on new draft legislation that prohibits taxi drivers from charging passengers more than the amount reflected on their meters.

The law also bans taxis from picking up a new customer if they already have a passenger, even if their destinations are similar.

According to QNA, the legislation will only apply to those who work for state-owned transport company Mowasalat.

These provisions address a long-standing complaint among passengers about being overcharged by drivers.

Tampered meters

According to Mowasalat, a Karwa taxi fare is free if the meter isn’t on. However, some drivers may not honor this, arguing that there meter is broken.

In the past, some have explained resorting to overcharging riders because drivers are underpaid and have trouble making ends meet.

The draft law also requires taxis to be colored turquoise, with blue, gray, maroon or yellow roofs “depending on the circumstances.”

Non-taxi motorists are banned from painting their vehicles in the same colors.

Thoughts?