Taxi commuters using the Somerset West routes have to find alternative transport this morning as the Western Cape Mobility Department’s 30-day closure came into effect today, following deadly clashes in recent weeks between associations CATA and CODETA.
The decision affects multiple routes linking Khayelitsha,
Mfuleni, Lwandle, Nomzamo and Somerset West, as well as specified taxi rank
lanes in these and surrounding areas.
Over the past weeks, six people lost their lives due to taxi-related violence between 23 and 26 August, and the fatal shooting of an off-duty police officer and taxi operator on 4 September. Western Cape Mobility MEC Isaac Sileku attributed the decision to close routes for the safety of commuters.
SANTACO expressed regret at the closures, noting the
long-term effects on operators, their families, and supporting businesses.
‘’ We receive this decision with both sadness and
understanding. Sadness, because of the long-lasting impact it will have on the
livelihoods of taxi operators and their families, as well as the businesses
that sustain our industry. At the same time, we understand that the measure was
taken in the interest of protecting lives, amid mounting violence and instability
linked to our sector,’’ said Mmatshikhidi Rebecca Phala, SANTACO National spokesperson.
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ARCHIVE‘’We sincerely apologise to commuters who will be
inconvenienced by these closures. As an industry that provides the backbone of
daily mobility for thousands of people, we are deeply aware of the disruption
this brings. Nevertheless, we remain optimistic and hopeful that through the
ongoing dialogue with government and other stakeholders, peace and stability
will soon be restored. SANTACO Western Cape is committed to working tirelessly
and in good faith towards a lasting solution,’’ she added.
MMC for Safety and Security, JP Smith assures commuters that there is no need to panic, following false reports of a taxi strike. He says a Joint Operations Centre will be established to monitor taxi routes in Somerset West and surrounding areas.
‘’ The Safety and Security Directorate has been
monitoring routes since tensions escalated – with the closures, our enforcement
services will be part of our JOC to ensure adherence, and to mitigate any potential
risks to public safety. My office has received numerous calls from members of
the public enquiring about a taxi strike – for the record, this is not a
strike, but the closure of routes for a pre-determined period, which means that
taxis are not allowed to operate on those routes identified by the Mobility
MEC.’’
Golden Arrow Bus Services and Metrorail will provide
additional capacity for affected commuters.
SUPPLIEDDone By: Elona Sibunzi
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