A proposal  to set up security cameras in taxis is a positive move to protect and save the lives of passengers and drivers.

Over the years we have had numerous incidents where taxi drivers have been brutally attacked by their passengers causing grave harm.

The taxi fraternity should welcome the move because it will protect the drivers for a start. The benefits will outweigh the setup cost.

Many drivers do not drive at night because they are afraid of being violently robbed.

In countries where taxi cameras have been used, the attacks against drivers have drastically been reduced. In Australia, there has been a 85 per cent reduction in attacks against drivers. There has also been a significant reduction in New Zealand.

It has removed the fear of working at night. Obviously there are issues that need to be ironed out. These include whether the rollout should be mandatory or voluntary. It should be mandatory with some form of assistance to help operators who may not be able to afford the cost which could range between $1000 and $2000 for the good quality cameras including accessories.

The success of the change also depends on the integrity of the drivers when it comes to turning the cameras on and off.

Some regular customers may not like the camera. But in the interest of the safety of everyone the cameras should be turned on all the time while the taxis are operating.

The images captured by the cameras will be valuable evidence in a robbery or homicide investigation. They can benefit the passengers too if they get into strife as victims of a robbery or dishonest drivers.

The sooner the cameras are introduced the better it is for safety in the taxi industry.

Feedback:  nemani.delaibatiki@fijisun.com.fj