Although it isn’t a legal operation, Richmond has an underground service that gives a number of its citizens an alternative to city taxis.
Much like the global phenomenon Uber, this service employs a ride-hailing app that allows customers to connect with drivers in their area; however, this app is not licensed. What is more, reports indicate that they may only except business from Chinese customers.
In fact, reports indicate that many of these illegal ride-hailing services operate within the province. With that being said, Richmond has the majority of them, with at least five known to authorities.
CBC News Spoke to the Mayor of Richmond, Malcom Brodie, who told them how these drivers are able to operate under the radar.
“They don’t particularly advertise their services,” he said. “It’s all word of mouth and I am told that many of them will only respond to people who speak Chinese or another language. So it makes it difficult in terms of trying to address the situation.”
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Secret Uber Services In Metro Vancouver
The British Columbia Ministry of Transportation and Infrastructure is very clear, however, on who bears the responsibility for such activities.
“It is important that drivers providing commercial transportation services through these social media apps understand they are assuming all of the risk related to providing the service. It is the driver, not the app companies, that are operating illegally and are subject to penalties and fines of $1,150. “ noted a public advisory posted from the administration back in October 2017.
If you have questions or concerns or want to make a report about these services please contact the Passenger Transportation Branch at 604-527-2198 or e-mail at [email protected]
