Bangkok taxi driver sparks outrage by refusing to use meter (video)

A social media storm has erupted after a passenger shared a video on TikTok exposing a taxi driver in Bangkok refusing to use the meter and demanding a flat fare. The incident, recorded by user @praewspmi, has drawn widespread criticism and calls for stricter enforcement of regulations.

The video shows the passenger attempting to hail a taxi near the Siam BTS station. A yellow taxi pulls up, and the conversation unfolds as follows:

Passenger: “Worachak, please.”
Taxi driver: “150 baht.”
Passenger: “Aren’t you using the meter?”
Taxi driver: “No meter, sorry.”
Passenger: “Is that not used anymore?”
Taxi driver: “Sorry.”
Passenger: “Thank you.”

The video went viral after being shared on the Facebook page อยากดังเดี๋ยวจัดให้ รีเทริน์ part 7. Many social media users expressed frustration over the apparent leniency in penalties for such behaviour, suggesting that light fines do little to deter misconduct among taxi drivers.

“With such low fines, why would any taxi driver be afraid? It’s no wonder they continue to flout the rules.”

“Are the transport authorities just there to renew registrations these days?”

According to local regulations, taxis are required to use meters for all journeys, with violators facing fines. However, the enforcement of these rules is often seen as inadequate, leading to repeated violations.

The Transport Ministry has been urged to take more stringent action against drivers who refuse to comply with the regulations. Repeated calls for better enforcement and higher fines aim to ensure that passengers are not subjected to arbitrary fare demands. The video has reignited the debate over how to effectively regulate the industry and protect consumers.

Bangkok taxi drivers have been a topic of concern for years, with numerous reports of overcharging and refusing service to certain areas. The introduction of ride-hailing apps has somewhat alleviated these issues, offering passengers more transparent pricing and reliable service. However, traditional taxis remain a significant part of the city’s transport network, and their regulation continues to be a critical issue, reported KhaoSod.