The story that appeared in the front-page of Arab News titled “End of the road for price manipulators” was interesting, but I wonder how long will it take to be adhered to.

Being in Makkah, I am sorry to say that I have heard many a complaint from many visitors who arrive here. It is indeed very sad to see and hear this from our own brethren who come here for religious purposes. The shops here sell some foodstuff at different prices. During the peak seasons the prices are raised more.

This also goes for the taxi service. Very recently, a relative of mine was duped for SR 600 to travel from the Haram to Aisha Masjid. Of course he had 3 other passengers with him, but still this was a fare too much. He was very upset when I told him that he could have traveled all the way to Madinah for this fare.

This is because there is no control, that these taxi drivers charge exorbitant fees. I wish the authorities could enforce a meter system for all taxis. This would ensure a more efficient service and also curb the use of private vehicles operating as taxis. — A.R.H. Ossman, Makkah