Explain reasons behind complicated fare system

The letter “Single flag-down fare system puts cabbies, passengers on equal ground” (Oct 18) was a perfectly succinct response to our taxi woes.

The current fare system is so complex that it is a big joke for a developed country that has a reputation for achieving objectives efficiently and quickly. With such multi-layered charging conditions, passengers do not remember the fare schedule; to spare themselves the stress, they simply pay the fare.

I would like to hear from the authorities how such a complicated fare system developed: The reasons and objectives it intended for a straightforward public service. If this system must be changed, what are the difficulties we will face and how different is the Singapore situation from other cities and countries?