It could soon cost you more to take a taxi across town.

City politicians are debating a fare hike for Toronto cabs in light of rising gas prices. The Toronto Taxicab Industry Association (TTIA) contends drivers' costs have risen between $400 and $600 a month on account of the surging cost of a fill-up.

The last time cab fares increased was three years ago, when a litre of gas cost about $0.95. Nowadays the marquee is reading anywhere from $1.25 to $1.29 a litre, and drivers are having to eat up the extra cost.

If the fare hike is approved the meter would begin at $4 rather than $3.

Councillor Howard Moscoe of the City's Licensing and Standards Committee brought the issue forward, saying, "The rise in fuel costs is causing concern to the taxicab industry."

TTIA President Louis Seta said he was happy to see the issue being addressed.

"We are thrilled to be working with the government to help improve the quality of life and standard of living for the average cab driver," he noted in a statement.

Under the new fare plan a five kilometre ride would increase by about $1.75.

The TTIA represents 20,000 drivers across the city.