Taxi drivers warned over drugs, alcohol

PIC: Nakawa mayor Eng. Nsubuga Balimwezo addressing commuter taxi drivers of stage seven in Luzira on Wednesday. (Credit: Juliet Waiswa)

PUBLIC TRANSPORT

KAMPALA - Nakawa mayor Balimwezo Nsubuga has warned taxi drivers under the Nakawa Taxi drivers Association in Nakawa division to stop the consumption of alcohol and drugs.

Balimwezo, while meeting taxi drivers operating at Stage Seven in Luzira, a city suburb, told the drivers that his office had received complaints that drivers take alcohol and abuse drugs, which has affected the industry.

He had invited the drivers who had organised a meeting to iron out issues affecting their duties.

Balimwezo warned drivers of being phased out if they remain disorganised, citing Kampala Capital City Authority (KCCA) plans to substitute the commuter taxis with buses.

On the issue of paying the pending sh120,000 monthly fee, Balimwezo urged drivers to consider paying the fee which the Government sets if they want service delivery.

The commuter taxi drivers has for the last eight months not paid the sh120,000 monthly revenue after a directive from the Office of the President.

The mayor was meeting drivers who had raised concern over the increasing crime among the drivers plying the Luzira- Bugolobi route.

"Some people driver under the influence of alcohol, while others abuse drugs, which puts the lives of the passengers at risk. We should come up with bylaws to manage your business," Balimwezo said.

Nakawa local councillor Alice Amonyi encouraged the drivers to work towards achieving a positive goal.  She also encouraged them to save for the sake of the families.

Area LC5 councillor Okwera Mugisha told the drivers that they should organise election of their leaders.

There  drivers say criminals have joined the industry and are spoiling our business, saying there was need to weed them by putting  by-laws  in place.