Seasonal Taxi Fare Hike in Tetouan Sparks Public Outcry

A decision to implement a new seasonal fare for large taxis operating between Tetouan, Martil, and M'diq in Morocco has ignited widespread debate among citizens and transport professionals. The fare has been raised from 6 dirhams to 10 dirhams during specific hours, a move justified by authorities as necessary to cover rising operational expenses during the peak summer season.

The decision reportedly came in response to requests from taxi unions, which argued that the previous fare was no longer adequate given the significant additional burdens imposed by intense traffic congestion on the routes connecting the three cities throughout July and August. Local authorities engaged in a series of meetings with sector representatives, culminating in an agreement to adopt the temporary seasonal tariff.

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The increase of four dirhams does not reflect any improvement in the quality of service, considering it burdens passengers.

Under the new arrangement, the increased rate of 10 dirhams will apply daily from 10 a.m. to 5 a.m. the following morning. The standard fare of 6 dirhams will remain in effect during the morning hours, from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. This seasonal pricing is explicitly temporary, intended only for the peak summer months, with a return to the original 6-dirham fare scheduled for September as tourist and traffic volumes decrease.

However, many passengers using these routes have voiced strong opposition to the fare hike. They argue that the 4-dirham increase does not correspond to any discernible improvement in service quality and places an undue financial strain on commuters. Some have gone as far as to label the increase as "daylight robbery."

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It is 'stealing an extra dirham from citizens'.