Mandatory cameras in taxis proposed

Stacy Shi

To further enhance the SAR's taxi service, the Transport and Logistics Bureau has proposed for all cabs to have cameras installed in 2026.

In a paper submitted to the Legislative Council transport panel yesterday, the bureau proposed to amend the law, mandating that cameras be equipped in taxi compartments, alongside dashcams and GPS navigation systems.

The bureau said installing surveillance systems in taxis will help enhance safety, deter inappropriate behavior by drivers, and protect their rights as well as their passengers' in disputes, ultimately improving the service's quality and overall image.

Drivers must select and install the devices themselves in accordance with the Transport Department's requirement. Any recordings and data must also be encrypted and stored in the devices for no less than 30 days.

The government would also arrange for an independent third-party professional organization to conduct privacy impact and security risk assessments.

Procurement and installation of relevant devices cost between HK$3,500 to HK$5,300 with monthly operation and maintenance ranging from HK$150 to HK$200, the bureau said. It believes costs may fall as the mandate would spur competition among providers.

The bureau aims to submit the proposed amendments to Legco in the second quarter of 2025 and for all camera installations to be completed in 2026.

Privacy Commissioner Ada Chung Lai-ling said the Office of The Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data would advise the government in response to its subsequent consultation, believing the measure would help enhance taxi service.

She said she was pleased with the inclusion of a privacy impact assessment and hopes the government would take its results and the drivers' and passengers' privacy into account.

But Hong Kong Taxi and Public Light Bus Association chairman Chau Kwok-keung slammed the government for not offering any subsidy to install cameras.

"The government is willing to allocate a considerable sum of money on infrastructure, yet they are reluctant to provide even a small amount of subsidy for the installation of cameras, so I think they are miserly," he said, adding this would add financial burden on the trade, which has suffered a blow in recent years with illegal hire car services, high insurance premiums and low capacity reducing its revenue.

But some drivers welcomed the proposal, saying cameras would protect both drivers and passengers.

A taxi driver named Wong said there is no cause for concern as long as no one violates the law.

"It is beneficial to have evidence and proof of any wrongdoing committed by the passenger or driver," Wong said.

stacy.shi@singtaonewscorp.com