Government will “move into enforcement” (see last Thursday’s newspaper) after its mandatory 2026 confirmation process was not completed for over 600 public transport permits. Those involved can expect permit review, suspension or revocation procedures, increased roadside inspections and referral to the upcoming Public Transportation (PTC) framework.
Although this may sound rather harsh, keep in mind that the deadline for compliance was extended by several months. Authorities are nevertheless aware that the issue regards people’s livelihoods and will no doubt exercise discretion in executing the aforementioned measures.
Still, if out of 354 bus permits on file only 138 were confirmed in 2025 and 127 this year, something is wrong. The same goes for taxis, with respectively 455 and 400 out of 683 as well as touring cars and unregulated permits with 47 and 40 out of 149.
Such low compliance rates indicate either reluctance and lack of cooperation by operators or widespread flaunting of relevant rules, including having valid vehicle inspection- insurance- and road tax documents. Either way, the active involvement of unions representing bus- and taxi drivers seems called for at this point.
Some might not be unwilling but facing trouble meeting certain requirements like filing taxes. And while rising fuel prices are understandably a priority right now, helping members become and remain street legal is also important.
No matter how you look at it, better regulating the sector is a clear necessity and law-abiding operators are a must.
