Pori considers regulating city square taxi rank to improve safety

City councillors in Pori have proposed stricter regulations for the taxi rank at Kauppatori (Market Square) to address overcrowding, unclear queues, and inconsistent service quality, Yle Satakunta reports.

Councillors Peetu Lahtinen and Christa Lahto, both from the National Coalition Party, submitted a motion calling for controlled access to the rank, citing Helsinki Central Railway Station as a model. Since implementing similar restrictions—limiting the rank to two established taxi dispatch companies—conflicts and altercations among drivers have declined in the capital.

The proposal highlights concerns over safety and reliability at Pori’s Kauppatori, particularly during late-night hours and peak seasons. “Service levels vary, queues become chaotic, and oversight is challenging,” the councillors wrote, emphasizing the need for “clear, preventive measures” before problems escalate.

Enforcement challenges remain
Ilkka Pirhonen, chair of Satakunnan Aitotaksi—a traditional local taxi operator—welcomed the idea but questioned how restrictions would be enforced. Unlike Helsinki’s rank, which is gated and accessible only to approved vehicles, Pori’s open square lacks such infrastructure.

Pirhonen estimated that 30–40 unaffiliated “wild taxis” operate in Pori during busy periods, some bypassing the rank to solicit fares directly outside bars at closing time. While incidents of overcharging are reported, he noted they remain relatively rare.

Demand fluctuates sharply with events like Pori Jazz and Suomi-areena, which draw temporary drivers to the city. “Right now, we’re in a low-demand phase,” Pirhonen said, linking slower business to broader economic downturns.

The councillors stressed that Pori’s taxi issues are less severe than Helsinki’s but argued that proactive regulation could prevent future conflicts and ensure consistent service standards.