Two Soweto taxi ranks shut down due to violence
Gauteng Transport MEC Kedibone Diale-Tlabela has closed down two taxi ranks in Soweto amid ongoing violence between two rival associations.
The Nancefield-Dube West Taxi Association (NANDUWE) and Witwatersrand Taxi Association (WATA) are locked in a dispute over routes.
The department says the decision was taken as precautionary measure as the violence threatens the safety of passengers, residents and the general public.
Traffic officers have also been deployed to the affected routes and ranks to maintain law and order.
"The teams have been on the ground since Friday, and during their operations 47 vehicles have since been impounded. Of these 26 belong to WATA and 21 to Nanduwe," the department said in a statement on Monday.
"Law enforcement is keeping a close eye on operations in Soweto, specifically routes around Zone 9 between Central Western Jabavu and Orlando West.
"The department has also noted, with concern, the discontinuation of public transport services in Zola, a route not affected by tensions between WATA and Nanduwe."
Commuters have been advised to make alternative transport arrangements.
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