The government took steps this week to increase the supply of cabs after months of shortages, but critics say the problems with the industry run deeper.

Read More Taxicabs and Taxicab Drivers, Politics and Government, Traffic Accidents and Safety, Shortages, Car Services and Livery Cabs, Travel and Vacations, Meloni, Giorgia (1977- ), Uber Technologies Inc, Italy, Milan (Italy), Rome (Italy)