Smart Cab close down, hundreds of their cabbies affected

ALL content used in this not-for-profit blog remain the property of their respective owners.
http://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/over-100-smart-cab/830644.html

More than 100 drivers affected by the closure of Smart Cab have found jobs with other operators. The National Taxi Association said most of them are now driving with Trans-Cab.

In July, LTA announced it would not renew Smart's taxi operator licence after it failed to meet standards on multiple occasions. Smart's operator licence expires on September 30 and will not be renewed.

In addition, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) said Trans-Cab will be taking over all 268 taxis owned by Smart.

Smart also did not meet requirements such as a minimum fleet size.

Even though the transfer of Smart taxi drivers to other operators has been fairly smooth, there are still a few unresolved issues such as outstanding accident claims.

In addition, drivers now have to pay higher rental at their new companies -- for example, the daily rent at Trans-Cab is S$133 as compared to S$100 at Smart.

However, other stakeholders felt the authorities could have done more.

Ang Hin Kee, the National Taxi Association's executive adviser said: "The situation could have been better handled if the authority had a better structure. On one hand you make this announcement, on the other you assure the drivers that LTA will be assisting them with any issues they may have.

"We are happy to be a complementing partner in this scheme, but should the size be of a bigger player, I think resources will be very stretched. And I hope the authorities can figure out how to tackle issues that may impact the livelihood of drivers."