Photo: CFP

Local traffic authorities said that they will implement measures to promptly address transport capacity issues and ensure transportation demands are met, in response to the suspension of ride-hailing app services at Shanghai Pudong International Airport, which has sparked intense online debate.

Following the news of the suspension, the Shanghai Road Transport Administrative Bureau confirmed that the notification was genuine, The Paper reported on Wednesday.

The recently released "notice" is not a new regulation, but a reiteration of one implemented in 2016, said Wu Xuecheng, an official of Shanghai Road Transport Administrative Bureau.

"Currently, the supply of taxis at Pudong Airport is sufficient, and drivers have to wait for five to six hours to collect a passenger. For major transportation hubs like Pudong Airport, it is best to prioritize taxi services to ensure smooth travel. Based on the recent transport arrangements, we are reiterating the existing regulations," Wu said.

The notice suspended ride-hailing services from posting passenger pick-up information at the Pudong Airport, but does not prohibit dropping off passengers at airports or train stations, Wu added. 

"There are no plans to make adjustments to the regulations suspending ride-hailing services from operating at Pudong Airport after the Spring Festival travel rush," said Wu Xuecheng,in an interview with China National Radio(CNR) on Thursday.

Measures will be taken to adjust capacity in a timely manner to ensure transportation needs are met, local traffic authorities said, after the news of ride-hailing app services being suspended at Shanghai Pudong International Airport sparked heated online discussion.

In the long term, relevant departments will adjust measures and plan for capacity assurance in a timely manner based on the actual changes in passenger flow, Wu said. 

Global Times