Like most people I know, I have used a private taxi from time to time.
When you have been waiting in the baking hot sun for half an hour, you are not in the mood to turn down a ride in favour of that elusive Karwa taxi.
Perhaps it is possible to order Karwa taxis now. I have twice ordered a taxi and not had it come, despite giving 12 hours notice. However, that was several years ago, so perhaps their service has improved.
There is now a crackdown on private taxis, and, according to the Gulf Times, over sixty have been confiscated.
The taxis are taking a big risk. Not only can they be fined - and now, it seems, lose their car - their insurance, in the event of an accident, will not be valid.
Although what they are doing is illegal, I can't help feeling sorry for people trying to make a bit of extra money on the side - and, at the same time, providing a valuable service for some very hot and sweaty customers.
