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Taxi Drivers and Ride-Hailing Dispute in Casablanca: A Diplomatic Incident Sheds Light on Sector Tensions

Tuesday 03 December 2024 - 12:13

A recent altercation in Casablanca between a traditional taxi driver and a ride-hailing app driver has sparked widespread attention, particularly after it involved a Russian diplomat and his wife. The incident occurred near a luxury hotel on Avenue des FAR, where the two drivers were reportedly competing for passengers in a crowded area. The situation quickly escalated, prompting police intervention.

According to reports, the Russian couple, en route to the hotel via a ride-hailing app, found themselves caught up in the dispute. The altercation, which was primarily verbal, did not result in any physical assault on the diplomat, despite initial concerns. However, it drew significant attention and led to a demonstration by taxi drivers in front of the courthouse on Monday, who voiced their frustrations over what they perceive as unfair competition from app-based services.

Taxi drivers in Morocco have long advocated for regulatory reforms to protect their livelihoods, arguing that ride-hailing apps are undermining their businesses. In contrast, companies offering these app-based services argue that such innovation benefits consumers by creating a more competitive market. This rivalry has become a topic of national debate, with some calling for a balanced approach to modernizing the transport sector while addressing the concerns of traditional drivers.

The involvement of a foreign diplomat in the dispute has heightened public interest in the issue, underscoring the need for a fairer regulatory environment. The incident highlights the broader tensions between old and new modes of transportation and serves as a reminder of the importance of finding a solution that considers the interests of all stakeholders in Morocco's evolving transport landscape.

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