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SINGAPORE : Several months ago, taxis companies reported a record slump in passenger numbers, but drivers say business is now picking up.
Singapore is home to a combined total of about 24,000 taxis operated by seven transport companies.
According to the Land Transport Authority, between June and August this year, they saw an average daily ridership of some 840,000 passenger trips, a record low since the 2003 SARS outbreak. But since September this year, daily passenger trip numbers have gone up to 870,000.
Some passengers said they cannot always afford to take a cab.
One passenger said: "If there is a need for me to take the taxi, I have to - like when I am late for work, or in an emergency, for example when it rains."
Another commented: "During better times, I am sure I won't think so much before I decide to take a cab."
And with the increase in passenger numbers, taxi drivers' incomes are also expected to rise.
In the first half of this year, the average daily income generated by a taxi operating two shifts was S$166. That number has gone up to S$172 in September.
Taxi drivers said they hope taxi companies could explore ways of cutting their overheads.
One taxi driver, Mohander Singh, said: "Taxi companies must reduce their rental. Secondly, now the fuel charges are very high."
With the festive holidays approaching, coupled with the opening of the integrated resorts and the upcoming Youth Olympic Games, taxi drivers said they are expecting a continued increase in the number of passengers. - CNA/ms
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