Makassar’ Sultan Hasanuddin International Airport is stepping up its efforts to combat the persistent issue of illegal taxi and ride-hailing drivers, often dubbed the “‘King’ illegal drivers.” These unauthorized operators frequently harass passengers, disrupt orderly traffic flow, and undermine legitimate transportation services. To tackle this problem head-on, airport authorities are implementing a comprehensive plan centered around an enhanced, high-tech CCTV surveillance system.
The new CCTV infrastructure will significantly expand the airport’s monitoring capabilities, covering not just arrival and departure areas but also key access roads and parking zones. These advanced cameras will feature high-resolution imaging, night vision, and potentially even facial recognition technology to identify and track illegal drivers operating within the airport precinct. The real-time monitoring will allow security personnel to quickly identify and intercept unauthorized vehicles and drivers.
This technological upgrade is coupled with increased on-the-ground enforcement. Airport security and transportation officials will work in tandem, using the CCTV footage to pinpoint offenders and take immediate action, which could range from issuing warnings to vehicle impoundment and legal penalties. The aim is to create a deterrent effect, making it increasingly difficult and risky for illegal operators to conduct their activities at the airport.
The implementation of the enhanced CCTV plan is a welcome development for legitimate taxi and ride-hailing services that adhere to regulations and pay necessary fees. They have long complained about the unfair competition and disruptive behavior of the illegal drivers. Passengers will also benefit from a more organized and secure transportation environment, free from the pressure and potential scams associated with unauthorized operators.
While the “King” illegal drivers have proven to be a stubborn problem, the combination of advanced technology and increased enforcement offers a promising strategy. The enhanced CCTV plan at Makassar Airport signifies a strong commitment to creating a fair and orderly transportation system for all airport users, sending a clear message that illegal operations will not be tolerated. This initiative could serve as a model for other airports in Indonesia facing similar challenges.