Taxi companies in Brussels are overwhelmed with calls since last weekend’s the decision to place Brussels-Capital under the highest terror alert level. With the metro closed, many more people are using taxi services.
Taxis Bleus registered an increase in activity of 25% to 30% compared to a normal Monday or Tuesday. “The hike even reached 300% during rush hour (7.00-10.00am and 4.00pm-8.00pm),” says manager Luigi Marrocco. “All our drivers are on deck and we are still sometimes short. We are prioritising people who have to travel for medical reasons. But at night there has been a real drop in demand since Saturday evening,” he adds.
Taxis Verts confirm custom has increased three-fold since last weekend. “We have increased our teams but even so still have to prioritise (people travelling for medical reasons, people who have difficulty walking, etc), at certain busy times,” commented Jean-Michel Courtoy
It seems taxi companies have been given no particular instructions by the police. “In our trade, we have learned to be cautious,” explains Jean-Michel Courtoy. The taxi drivers themselves are not afraid of start their shift. “Everyone is well aware of how much we are helping at this time,” adds Mr. Courtoy.
(Source: Belga)
