As the Lunar New Year approaches, taxi fares in Taiwan’s major cities, including New Taipei, Taipei, and Keelung, will increase by NT$30 (approximately US$0.92) from January 22 to February 2, as announced by the Transportation Department of New Taipei City. The fare hike is set to coincide with the Lunar New Year holiday period, which falls between January 25 and February 2.
The surcharge, which will be added to the standard taxi meter fare, is part of the government’s annual adjustments to ensure a smoother transportation experience during one of Taiwan’s busiest travel seasons.
Details of the Fare Increase
Taxi fares in New Taipei City will see a NT$30 increase during the Lunar New Year period. The same fare hike will apply to taxis operating in Taipei and Keelung, making this a citywide measure aimed at managing the increased demand for transportation.
Nighttime Surcharge:
In addition to the NT$30 surcharge, an additional NT$20 will be added to taxi fares between the hours of 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. This charge will apply throughout the holiday period and is designed to compensate drivers for working during late-night hours when demand is typically lower.
These changes are being implemented to adjust for the seasonal surge in taxi demand as people travel for family gatherings, vacations, and other holiday activities during the Lunar New Year.
What the Transportation Department Says
According to Lin Shih-chin (林詩欽), a spokesperson for the Transportation Department, taxis are primarily charged based on the distance traveled, with no additional fees unless specified during holidays or special events. Lin further emphasized that any taxis found violating fare rules will face strict penalties. Drivers who fail to adhere to the meter fare or operate without the proper licenses could face fines ranging from NT$9,000 to NT$90,000.
The measure also highlights that taxis operating in Taipei, New Taipei, and Keelung are subject to these surcharge rules, helping to standardize the price increase during this busy season.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Why is there a fare increase during the Lunar New Year period?
A: The fare increase is implemented to manage the high demand for taxi services during the Lunar New Year holiday, ensuring that drivers are compensated for their extended working hours and increased service loads.
Q: Will the NT$30 surcharge apply to all taxi rides?
A: Yes, the NT$30 surcharge will be added to the meter fare for all taxi rides within New Taipei, Taipei, and Keelung between January 22 and February 2.
Q: Is there an additional surcharge for late-night rides?
A: Yes, there will be an extra NT$20 surcharge for rides taken between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. during the holiday period.
Q: What penalties do taxi drivers face for violating fare rules?
A: Drivers who charge more than the meter fare or operate without proper licensing could face fines ranging from NT$9,000 to NT$90,000.
Q: Will the fare increase affect only taxis in New Taipei, Taipei, and Keelung?
A: Yes, the NT$30 surcharge is specific to taxis operating in these three municipalities, which are the most likely to experience increased passenger demand during the Lunar New Year period.
Summary of Fare Changes
| City | Fare Increase | Nighttime Surcharge (11 p.m. – 6 a.m.) |
|---|---|---|
| New Taipei City | NT$30 | NT$20 |
| Taipei City | NT$30 | NT$20 |
| Keelung City | NT$30 | NT$20 |
