Jindo-gun Starts Operation of Voucher Taxis for Transportation-Disadvantaged People

Introduction of Customized Transportation for Non-Wheelchair Mobility-Disadvantaged Individuals

[Jindo=Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Choi Jae-kyung] Jindo County started operating voucher taxis from the 1st to improve transportation means and welfare for transportation-vulnerable groups.

Currently, Jindo County operates three call taxis for the disabled as transportation means for the transportation-vulnerable.

As the number of transportation-vulnerable people increases every year and waiting times lengthen, causing inconvenience to users, voucher taxis have been introduced to improve this situation by providing transportation support services to eligible users through commercial taxis.

Voucher taxis operate for those registered at the Jeonnam Regional Mobility Support Center as transportation-vulnerable, including severely disabled non-wheelchair users, persons aged 65 or older who have difficulty using public transportation, and pregnant women.

A total of five voucher taxis are in operation, and dispatch requests can be made through the regional call center or the Regional Mobility Support Center website. Operating hours are from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

The service area is within Jindo County. The fare is 500 KRW for the first 2 km, with an additional 100 KRW per km. The maximum fare is capped at 1,000 KRW, which is the rural bus fare, making it cheaper than regular taxi fares. Usage is limited to up to 4 times per day and 30 times per month.

Kim Hee-su, Jindo County Governor, said, “Through the operation of voucher taxis for the transportation-vulnerable, we expect an expansion of mobility rights and improved convenience for transportation-vulnerable residents in the region.” He added, “We will actively promote voucher taxis from the perspective of transportation welfare to ensure many transportation-vulnerable people can use the service.”