Transport Malta is developing a system to prevent taxi drivers from working more than 12 consecutive hours, aiming to reduce fatigue-related risks and improve road safety. A spokesperson said that tired drivers pose a danger to themselves, their passengers, and other road users.
Currently, ride-hailing platforms set their own limits on driving hours. However, drivers can bypass these by switching between platforms, a practise that is especially common during the busy summer months.
This measure is part of broader efforts by Transport Malta to improve regulation in the ride hailing sector after years of limited enforcement. In January, the authority revoked several operator licences after inspections that revealed many vehicles were registered with false garage addresses – a legal requirement that indicates where taxis are parked when not in use. As a result, around 1,400 taxis were removed from service, though many were later granted temporary permission to continue operations while court proceedings are underway.
To strengthen enforcement, the authority has also opened public reporting channels for illegally parked taxis, particularly Y-plate vehicles that are not permitted to park in public spaces when out of service. This move reflects growing concern over the sector’s rapid expansion. According to the National Statistics Office, over 5,000 chauffeur-driven vehicles were registered under garage hire in the first quarter of this year, alongside 281 white taxis operating from official stands.
The Shadow Minister for Transport, Mark Anthony Sammut, noted that it aligns with a proposal made by the opposition last year. He described the measure as an example of how “researched, achievable proposals” can lead to safer roads and better service quality.
Author: Carolina Ramos
Views and opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and do not reflect those of the European Commission.
