LTA can streamline taxi system with its own booking app

I refer to the reports “LTA exploring regulations for third-party taxi booking apps” (Nov 5) and “LTA deploys high-tech in bid to cut taxi wait” (Nov 6).

Both the commercial third-party mobile applications and the Land Transport Authority’s (LTA) Taxi Information System (TIS) have one common aim — a more pleasant experience when using taxis.

With this in mind, could the LTA not be the central provider of a booking app, in addition to the TIS? By streamlining these two areas, commuters can either choose to book a taxi without having to decide from an array of apps or use the TIS to gauge the average waiting time.

It has also been reported that taxi fare structures could be simplified. Together with the two components mentioned above, we could have a more efficient system — one with an easy-to-understand fare structure, a less confusing availability and booking system, and greater indication of waiting times for a taxi.

To simplify the fare structure and implement a high-tech monitoring system, yet still have a confusing array of apps, would leave commuters bewildered.