SHANGHAI transport authorities plan to build new taxi waiting areas around some residential communities and busy business hubs.

The Shanghai Transport and Port Authority is still working on a detailed draft.

The measure could cut the number of vehicles on the city's roads, authorities said, as it would stop many taxis driving around empty in search of passengers.

More than 40,000 taxi operate in the city, carrying more than 3 million passengers every day.

They drive a total of about 13 million kilometers daily. However, up to 40 percent of that distance is done without any passengers on board, authorities said.

In 2005, Shanghai had about 1,000 regular taxi stands where drivers could wait for passengers.

But they were gradually removed to make more space on the road.

Traffic officials said the new waiting areas would be designed in such a way as to avoid blocking the main roads.

Local drivers welcomed the idea.

Fang Jianzhong, who has been a taxi driver for more than 10 years, said he drove about 400 kilometers every day, but 150 kilometers of that was without a passenger.

"It's a great waste," said Fang. "I can also have a break during the waiting time."

Gu Meishan, another taxi driver, said she went to traditional taxi stands only when she was driving nearby.

"There will be more choices for us," said Gu.

But Gu also had concerns. "It might not be worthwhile when I have a short journey after a long time waiting."

Local authorities began considering the issue in response to a proposal from a member of the city's top advisory body concerning reducing the number of empty taxis driving around and increasing energy efficiency.