Taxi industry vows to monitor release of R1bn relief funds
The National Taxi Alliance has welcomed the launch of the first step in the release of R1 billion as part of the Covid-19 relief funds for the taxi industry.
From Tuesday, minibus, meter, and e-hailing taxi operators can start calling and visiting the Taxi Relief Fund center in Sandton to apply for funds.
The initiative is part of government's plan to assist the industry after it was hit hard during the lockdown.
“We are pleased that they have settled this matter outside court, and also that they have relaxed all those requirements they had attached to this process. We are happy but we will watch this process closely,” said NTA spokesperson Theo Malele.
He said it was difficult to say how much money each taxi operator may be able to apply for due to the inconclusive data.
“We are not sure how much money it will be that gets dispersed to each, simple arithmetic would be that quantum R1.135 billion divided by the number of registered taxis would be the process to follow, but not all taxis will qualify for that,” said Malele
He said only taxis that were registered from 2008 will qualify, he says they are still in conversation with the department of transport to ensure they are given an opportunity to qualify.
Transport Minister Fikile Mbalula said they aim to conclude this process by March.
The call center will be manned by 65 agents, the number to call is toll-free 0800 201971.
Mbalula said the bus industry already has financial support from the government hence it is excluded.
He said the department would be reviewing the subsidy policy for public transport with a specific focus on supporting the taxi industry.
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