Debated in Parliament on 16 Sep 2013.
Mrs Lina Chiam asked the Minister for Transport whether taxis that are not carrying passengers can be exempted from ERP charges so as to incentivise them to enter the Central Business District to pick up passengers.
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Taxis are subject to ERP charges as they take up road space and contribute to congestion just like other vehicles.
To encourage taxis to enter the Central Business District (CBD), taxi companies have introduced the City Area Surcharge for trips originating from the CBD. This surcharge applies every day during the evening peak period between 5 pm and midnight. In addition, Comfort and CityCab reimburse their drivers for the CBD ERP charges if they are unable to pick up a passenger within 15 minutes of entering the CBD empty during the evening peak period.
We will continue to monitor the taxi situation, including in key areas, such as the CBD, and where necessary, we will see how we can refine our policies and regulatory framework to ensure a good match of supply and demand.
PAPERCUTS