You won't find taxis on these roads for 30 days
Some people are going to be very happy…
Millions of South Africans use minibus taxis for their daily commute.
Although taxis have a reputation for reckless driving among motorists, many commuters rely on this service as their main source of transport.
The negative reputation surrounding taxis is not entirely unjustified, given the growing frustration with their driving, frequent accidents involving taxis, and, most troubling, the ongoing violence in the taxi industry.
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Unfortunately (and fortunately for some), this violence has now led to the closure of certain taxi routes.
You won't see taxis on these roads for 30 days
The Western Cape government has announced that several minibus taxi routes in the Cape Town metro will be closed for 30 days starting on 17 September.
These closures are being implemented under Section 91 of the National Land Transport Act (2009).
"This measure is aimed at preventing further violence, ensuring commuter safety, and restoring stability," said the official announcement.
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It is important to note that taxi ranks and roads will not be closed. Only the affected routes directly linked to the ongoing instability will be suspended.
The following routes are closed for 30 days from 17 September:
- 611 Khayelitsha – Somerset West
- 43 Lwandle – Khayelitsha
- M18 Mfuleni – Somerset West
- X19 Nomzamo – Mfuleni
- AA20 Khayelitsha – Somerset West CBD via Vergelegen Medical Clinic
- AA21 Khayelitsha – Sitari Village Mal
- R96 Khayelitsha – Somerset West via Somerset Mall
- R97 Khayelitsha – Waterstone Mall – Somerset West
- YEX63 Mfuleni – Somerset West
- YEX64 Mfuleni – Strand via Somerset West
Closed lanes of ranks:
- Lane 1 – Khayelitsha (Nonkqubela & Makhaza)
- Lane 1 – Mfuleni (new & old facilities)
- Lane 2 – Somerset West Interchange
- Lane 4 – Nomzamo taxi rank
- Lane 4 – Lwandle taxi rank
Golden Arrow Bus Services (GABS) and Metrorail will be available to provide alternative transport options during this period.
"This was not an easy decision, but it is one that had to be taken to protect the lives of commuters and residents. The safety of our communities is our top priority. While extraordinary measures are in place, we will continue to engage with CATA and CODETA to work toward a sustainable resolution and long-term peace in the minibus taxi industry," said Western Cape Mobility Minister Isaac Sileku.
The South African Police Service (SAPS), City of Cape Town Law Enforcement, and Provincial Traffic officers will be deployed. Anyone who violates the restrictions could face fines of up to R5,000 or imprisonment for up to six months.
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