Both passengers and taxi companies think the idea is good but they demand more steps to improve security of passengers. Some 10,000 registered taxis ply the streets. A driver's personal ID card will contain his picture, name, address and registration number of the vehicle. "The DMP will help taxi companies introduce and implement the ID card system," said Ansar Uddin Khan Pathan, deputy commissioner of the DMP traffic (south).

He said: "People in Dhaka would rather take a CNG-driven autorickshaw than a taxi. Not because the autorickshaw costs less, but because it is considered safer than a taxi. The cards will assure passengers of their safety."

"We have not yet heard of the ID card system. But it seems a good suggestion," said Tarun Kumar Kairy, assistant general manager of the taxi service department of Navana, the largest service provider in the city. Navana fits every vehicle with its own radio communication system, allowing the company's control room to locate it at any time and to stay in constant contact.

According to Kairy, this is vital to improve the security on the streets. "We wish that all taxi cab companies are equipped with the radio communications system. Companies that are not linked to any communications should be penalised by law."

To hire a professional driver, Kairy demands at least two responsible references. "In case the driver is involved in an accident or any criminal matter, these two persons should be held responsible for the driver's actions and compensate the loss."

Another taxicab company, Anudip, assures safety differently having introduced its own identity system. Khaled Saifullah, Anudip's general manager, said: "Taxi business is relatively new to Bangladesh. The main problem lies with insincerity of the drivers who sometimes carry illegal licences."

"We test the applicants before employing them. They have to get through oral, written and practical tests, as we cannot rely on the BRTA issued licences." In addition to this, Anudip has dispersed its own security staff in the city.

To prevent accidents after a long working day and to stop car burglaries, Anudip taxi drivers have to park the vehicles at the company's parking lot themselves.

The safety issue is important to passengers. "I would rather ask my friends to take me home at night than take a taxi," said Mansur Ahmed, a passenger. He uses an autorickshaw during the day. "If the ID card system would ensure safety, I may use taxis," he added.

The DMP has another answer to people's lack of confidence in taxi service. "A new taxi cab comppany may be the answer. The Ministry of Communications will give licences to a new taxi company, operating with green taxi cabs," said the deputy commissioner.

Apart from the safety issue, drivers refuse to take passengers to required destinations if the distance does not seem to be 'feasible'.

It adds to a passenger's worry when the phone numbers provided for complaints are not in proper working order.