Gauteng taxi ranks closure threat sparks collapse warning

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The Gauteng National Taxi Association (GNTA) has called on the MEC for Roads and Transport, Kedibone Diale, to withdraw threats of shutting down taxi ranks for six months. The association warned that the proposed closure, aimed at curbing taxi violence, could severely disrupt the province’s public transport system and affect thousands of livelihoods.

GNTA spokesperson Theo Malele said closing taxi ranks would have a devastating effect on commuters and operators alike.

“We discussed with the MEC that should she close the ranks, many people would lose their jobs, and those with financial obligations in paying for their vehicles monthly would struggle. People’s livelihoods would be at stake,” Malele explained.

Violence fuels the government’s taxi ranks closure ultimatum

The warning follows a violent incident in Mofolo, Soweto, where four taxi association members were shot dead. The killings have reignited tensions between rival taxi groups and prompted urgent talks between the GNTA, the Department of Roads and Transport, and the South African National Taxi Council (SANTACO).

MEC Diale, speaking at the Easter Road Safety Awareness Campaign launching Slovo Park, repeated her warning. She said that unless associations enforced an existing ceasefire agreement, her department would proceed with the taxi rank closures.

Industry proposes conflict resolution plan

In response, the GNTA announced plans to form a conflict resolution committee. The proposed 20-member committee will include representatives from both GNTA and SANTACO in Gauteng and other provinces.

Malele also warned that introducing an alternative public transport system during a shutdown could permanently damage the taxi industry.