PHUKET: Local bus drivers on Phuket have been told they may be hired by Chinese tour agents - but only if they can prove their vehicles are up to standard.
A meeting between the drivers' representatives and tour agents on Phuket this week, organised by the Department of Tourism and Sport, was seen as a step towards resolving the issue.
The drivers have been seeking to be given an opportunity at the head of the queue when Chinese tour agents seek buses.
But the agents made it plain that the local bus drivers had not created a good impression, with some poorly maintained buses and drivers who sometimes failed to turn up on schedule.
Some agents had even bought their own buses, the Phuket drivers were told, because of concerns about safety and service.
The local bus drivers will be required to provide photographic evidence and insurance papers to persuade agents of their commitment.
A meeting between the drivers' representatives and tour agents on Phuket this week, organised by the Department of Tourism and Sport, was seen as a step towards resolving the issue.
The drivers have been seeking to be given an opportunity at the head of the queue when Chinese tour agents seek buses.
But the agents made it plain that the local bus drivers had not created a good impression, with some poorly maintained buses and drivers who sometimes failed to turn up on schedule.
Some agents had even bought their own buses, the Phuket drivers were told, because of concerns about safety and service.
The local bus drivers will be required to provide photographic evidence and insurance papers to persuade agents of their commitment.
Just to add my tuppence worth, most of these local buses (Phuket number plates, I have noticed) chug around billowing masses of black smoke into Phuket's atmosphere. Quite often this may include in the faces of motorbike drivers & their passangers and is particularly the case when they pull away at traffic lights. This needs to be stopped.
Posted by Michael on October 3, 2015 10:19