Kaohsiung Extends Free Taxi Parking to Four Hours Daily Starting June 10

Kaohsiung City is extending the duration of free parking for taxis to four hours daily, a move designed to better accommodate drivers' needs for meal and rest breaks. This new policy will take effect on June 10.

The city's transportation bureau recognized the difficulties taxi drivers face in finding adequate time for meals and rest, often leading them to eat quickly in their vehicles. Previously, taxis were granted two hours of free parking in roadside parking spaces, excluding high-fee zones. However, this was often insufficient for drivers with irregular schedules.

To address this, the free parking period has been doubled to four hours. Additionally, the city's smart parking system will be updated to identify taxi license plates, distinguishing them from other vehicles. This upgrade aims to streamline the process and ensure compliance with the new parking regulations.

Kaohsiung City is home to approximately 9,600 taxis, with about 8,600 actively operating. While the extended free parking will impact parking fee revenue, the city anticipates the financial effect to be minimal. The initiative is part of the city's efforts to support its taxi drivers and improve their working conditions.