Hout Bay Taxi Association protests over compensation of MyCiti buses

The City of Cape Town says it has suspended its MyCiTi and Dial-a-Ride services in Hout Bay on Monday, after public violence erupted in the area.

Taxi operators in Hout Bay protested over route permits that was issued by the City of Cape Town About 50 taxi operators took part in Monday’s protest. The Hout Bay Taxi Association says the City promised they would be compensated for lost revenue when the bus service was introduced, which did not happen.

Several MyCiTi buses and private vehicles in and around Suikerbossie and Hout Bay Gateway Circle were stoned. Protesters also burned tyres at the Circle.

The City's Mayoral Committee Member for Urban Mobility, Rob Quintas said it had no choice to suspend operations, ‘’in the interest of the safety of commuters and personnel.’’

‘’This unfortunate suspension of MyCiTi and DAR services has a direct impact on the livelihood of these passengers as they depend on the availability of these transport services, but we cannot risk their safety while this unrest continues,’' said Quintas.

The mayco member condemned the incident.

‘’We have confirmation that three MyCiTi buses have been stoned in Imizamo Yethu, one of which was petrol bombed. Thankfully, we have not been informed of any injuries to passengers or bus drivers. I want to condemn the violence in the strongest possible terms. Fire and stones will not resolve anything, we all need to abide by the law and engage in a peaceful and respectful manner.’’

‘’The City has been engaging with HBTA since 2014 in respect of this process and will continue to do so. This matter is currently on the Western Cape High Court roll, it has been initiated by HBTA, and the City is awaiting the court's ruling on this matter.’’

‘’The City will continue to engage with the HBTA and will be meeting with the leadership from the community to find a solution. Law Enforcement is currently working with other joint operational services to ensure access in and out of the area as far as possible. The City cannot risk the lives of the passengers and its staff while this violence continues. We will only resume operations once it is safe to do so,’’ added Quintas.

 

Done By: Mitchum George