I had to go inside Jurong Island for work yesterday,and 4 (FOUR) taxis refused to take me because its too troublesome for them, even though I told them that I already have clearance, and obtaining a Pass from the Pass Office is less than 5 mins. An elderly semi-retired taxi-driver saw my plight and took me in. Inside the cab, he told me: 1) Nowadays taxi-drivers all like to choose the easy jobs. But this is actually against the rules for taxi-drivers. If they have no valid reasons (such as: changing shift, or no NETS machine for customers with no cash), then they can be reported, and a minimum fine of $100 is applicable. Me: Taxi drivers are recognized as Public Transport Operators, they are NOT private chauffeurs. When a normal person wants to enter Jurong Island, a company residing inside must give clearance first, before he/she can obtain a pass. A taxi driver DOES NOT need clearance, given the status of a Public Transport Operator. Which means they have a duty and responsibility to follow, not just only when its convenient to do so. 2) Taxi drivers are not allowed drop customers half-way along the journey. This is even more serious, and a minimum fine of $200 is applicable. They MUST send the customer to the destination. Me: Last year I had to go to Jurong Island as well. The taxi-driver, upon knowing that I had to change Pass at the Pass Office, says its too troublesome to wait, so he can only drop me at the Pass Office, and I had to call a new taxi from there. Changing pass took only a grand total of less than 5 mins. 3) Nowadays taxi drivers always bully customers, because all these rules you all dont know. Me: This elderly driver sent me all the way into Jurong Island. The fare was $15, but I gave him $20, as a token of appreciation for the inconveniences associated with travelling into Jurong Island. Professionalism means performing your duty, whether its convenient/easy or not. My clients will receive my full service, whether they are big clients or small clients. I dont care how much youre paying, but as long as youre my client, I will uphold my service standards for you. It is appalling to see such widespread unprofessionalism among taxi-drivers nowadays. It has been going on for years! I believe many of you might have encountered something similar. Share this with your friends. Next time a taxi-driver behaves unprofessionally, be sure to report him. Take down his licence number displayed clearly inside the taxi, and report the details to his respective taxi company.
Posted on: Thu, 03 Jul 2014 02:19:25 +0000