This addition brings the total number of taxi licenses in the city to 41, representing a 52% increase in service capacity in just two years. The Councilor for Protection, Security, and Coexistence, stated that this expansion aims to provide a better response to urban displacements, reinforce mobility to the beach, and improve connections with essential services such as the hospital, the courts, and the La Safor region.
“"This increase allows us to enhance connections with essential services such as the hospital or the courts, as well as with the region."
A key aspect of this award is the reinforcement of service accessibility. One of the seven new licenses corresponds to a vehicle adapted for people with reduced mobility, adding to those already in operation. Thus, Gandia goes from having a single adapted license to having seven accessible vehicles, substantially improving care for people with disabilities or special mobility needs.
With a current population close to 82,000 inhabitants, the city will reach a ratio of approximately one taxi license per every 2,000 residents. This proportion will allow for better demand management, especially during the summer months, when Gandia's population multiplies due to the arrival of visitors and tourists.
The chief commissioner of the Local Police explained that the award was made through a public competitive bidding process, with 24 offers submitted. The successful bidders are currently in the process of acquiring the vehicles, and the new licenses are expected to be operational by early June, after inspections by the Local Police. The evaluation process considered the economic offer, professional experience in the taxi and transport sector, accredited training, and the incorporation of ecological or zero-emission vehicles.
The awarding of the new licenses will also generate additional revenue for municipal coffers, with an estimated 400,000 euros, as the starting price for each license was 30,000 euros and some bidders submitted improved economic offers above this amount.
Furthermore, the City Council has announced the opening of the registration period for the taxi driver qualification exam in Gandia, a mandatory requirement. Interested individuals must hold a type B driving license, have no physical impediments for the job, no criminal record, and demonstrate knowledge of Spanish. The theoretical, multiple-choice test will include content related to taxi regulations, municipal ordinances, and knowledge of the city's streets. This process is convened annually to ensure the renewal of professionals and meet the increased demand.
