Since hitting Qatar streets last year, franchise taxi operators Al Million and Al Ijarah have expanded their fleets, now operating some 500 and 300 cars, respectively.

Adding in Mowasalat’s existing fleet, that comes out to some 2,800 taxis. But both drivers and their charges continue to voice concerns about the state of Qatar’s public transportation system.

For Mowasalat employees, competition from private, illegal cabs has become a growing problem, the Peninsula reports.

But residents say they rely on such drivers in part due to the lack of availability of taxis during peak hours and in key locations. Poor customer service and indiscriminate hiking of fares also plays a role.

An Al Million official said they are mindful of these complaints, telling the Peninsula:

“Recently we issued warnings to some drivers who were found to be taking passengers on fixed rates. We are using state-of-the-art meters which are difficult to tamper with. We are also trying to motivate our staff by honouring the best and outstanding drivers”, said the official.

Thoughts on this? Besides increasing the number of taxis on the road, what do you think can be done to improve transport problems here?

Credit: Photo by Omar Chatriwala