Fixed-route taxi drivers on strike in Vladikavkaz

Today in Vladikavkaz, the capital of North Ossetia, practically all drivers of fixed-route taxis have failed to start working. They express their protest against the authorities' statements that the tariff increase from 8 to 10 roubles per trip was illegal. The drivers addressed the Prosecutor's Office of North Ossetia asking for help in clearing out the situation.

Igor Zobov, a taxi driver, acts as drivers' spokesman. He said that he had once worked for the republic's service of tariffs. "They never made a real examination of tariffs, but just do what the government wants," he said.

According to Timur Bigoev, a driver working in Route 5, in one of taxis the tariff increase provoked a fight of passengers with a driver.

Besides, taxi drivers are worried with fuelling problems. They complain that Vladikavkaz has only one methane fuelling station. "We have to get up at five in the morning and line up for two hours to get fuelled," Mr Bigoev said.

The head of Vladikavkaz has reiterated the tough line of city authorities and recommended to bring the tariff back to 8 roubles; otherwise, as he threatened, all infringers will be fined.