Striking taxi drivers block roads in Tshwane

Striking taxi drivers block roads in Tshwane

Taxi drivers in Tshwane have blocked several roads amid a provincial strike to protest against the government’s Covid-19 aid package.

Taxi
Photo Cred: Sinethemba Madolo

The South African National Taxi Council (Santaco) in Gauteng is unhappy with the government’s R1.1 billion relief package, announced by Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula on Friday.


Tshwane metro police spokesperson Isaac Mahamba says although there have been no reports of violence, motorists are advised to be cautious.


"The Tshwane Metro Police Department is monitoring the situation to unblock the areas that are blocked by taxis. We advise motorists to use alternative roads but I can assure that we will remain on site until all blocked roads are officially opened.”


He says several areas were affected throughout the morning.


"The R65 and N14 in Olievenhoutbosch. In Pretoria West, WF Nkomo Street and Kalafong Road are blocked and the N17 towards the Mabopane highway is completely blocked. In Soshanguve. we have Aubrey Matlala and Transfer road is closed as well.”



Santaco has condemned the blocking of roads and intimidation of motorists and commuters.



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