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They are commonplace in many African capitals … but motorcycle taxis remain banned in Dakar, Senegal, by virtue of a 2012 decree. The region’s governor formally recalled it this week. He puts forward security reasons, and promises sanctions. What arouses the anger of the drivers.
With our correspondent in Dakar, Charlotte Idrac
Motorcycles for deliveries, yes. But for the paid transport of people, it remains no. For the governor of Dakar, motorcycle taxis are ” unsuitable “To the Senegalese capital,” due to the density of automobile traffic “, And present” risks to the safety of people »: Road accidents, assaults or snatching.
Al Hassan Sall therefore asks the Police and the Gendarmerie to ” redouble vigilance ” to fight “ this dangerous practice », « by carrying out a systematic check on any motorcycle carrying more than one person ».
Most often imported from Asia, these motorcycle taxis, nicknamed the “Jakarta”, have become more and more visible in the capital in recent months. A way for users to escape traffic jams, or an alternative in the event of a transport strike.
The governor’s call to order does the trick of traditional taxis, but it is ” unfair ”For motorcycle riders. ” This is what allows me to live »Explains one of them,« hundreds of young people will find themselves without activity He said. There is also the practical question of control, to determine whether or not a passenger has paid for his journey.
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