The concept of a free ‘Covid Taxi’ to transport people to their testing appointments at clinics across the city – thus keeping them off public transport – is quite innovative.
BUT, sadly as with most of the government’s initiatives – the devil is in the details. Participating taxies are only required to fully disinfect their passenger compartment ONCE a day!
The potential for cross-infection is probably far higher than taking a bus or the MTR… No attempt has been made to separate the driver from passengers – why not install a plastic sheet to separate the passenger compartment from the driver? No payment is needed and taxi’s need to be booked in advance, so the destination is already known to the driver.
Free ‘covid taxis’ will be available from 18 February and patients with appointments can book on www.designatedtaxihk.com or call 3693 4770 (8am to 10pm). To make a booking you need to provide: name, contact number, appointment time, designated clinic, pick-up location.