The news that taxi fares are set to rise in Beijing, despite earlier denials that an increase was on the cards, has not appeared to cheer up the capital's cabbies.
Beijing traffic authorities confirmed Friday that the fare increase will start in June, after they gather public feedback.
Taxi drivers have said they fear the monthly quota they pay to cab companies will increase, and the three-yuan fuel subsidy will be cut.
While traffic authorities have not confirmed what the fares will rise to, reports have suggested that flagfall will increase to 15 yuan ($2.4), and price per kilometer will rise from 2 yuan to 2.4 yuan.
A taxi driver from Beijing Beifang Taxi Company, surnamed Li, said that although he looks forward to a rise in fares, he doubts his income will increase.
"The taxi fare should be increased since it's been the same since 2005," he said.
"If the quota increases then it won't have any affect on our income. Canceling the three-yuan oil subsidy will make the situation worse," Li said.
Taxi drivers pay a monthly quota of 5,175 yuan to cab companies. Flagfall has been 10 yuan for three kilometers since 1998.
Beijing Municipal Commission of Transport could not be reached Sunday.
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