Commuters in Mfuleni are frustrated by the 30-day shutdown of taxi routes to Somerset West, following escalating violence between rival taxi associations.
From Wednesday, ten routes linking Mfuleni, Khayelitsha, Somerset West, Lwandle, and Nomzamo were closed for 30 days or until the Cape Amalgamated Taxi Association (CATA) and the Cape Organisation for Democratic Taxi Association (CODETA) reach a peace agreement. The closures come after deadly attacks on taxi operators and commuters in recent weeks.
Golden Arrow Bus Services and Metrorail have increased capacity, but many commuters say the alternatives remain inconvenient.
The City of Cape Town confirmed that six taxis were impounded on Wednesday morning as part of enforcement operations. Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security, Alderman JP Smith, said authorities are actively monitoring the situation.
“Our Joint Operations Centre is fully operational to oversee the closed routes and surrounding areas. We are using all resources at our disposal, including CCTV cameras, drones, and bodycams, to ensure compliance and public safety,” Smith said.
He added that enforcement efforts are supported by Provincial Traffic Services:
“Our teams are stationed at major and secondary routes, including Baden Powell Drive and Govan Mbeki Drive. At this stage, Khayelitsha, Somerset West, and Mfuleni taxi ranks are not operating as per the closure, and we continue to monitor these and other locations.”
The City urged commuters and operators to report any violations.
“The closure is a necessary step to prevent further violence. We appeal to all commuters and operators to adhere to the restrictions and to report any breaches or incidents to the Public Emergency Call Centre,” Smith added.
Residents can call 021 480 7700 or 107 (landline) to report emergencies or route violations.
VOC News
Photo: VOCfm
